Domestic COVID-19 Restrictions Extended by Two Weeks

Minister of Health Willum Þór Þórsson has just announced that domestic COVID-19 restrictions in Iceland, originally set to expire tomorrow, will remain unchanged for the coming two weeks, mbl.is reports. The decision is in accordance with the recommendations of Chief Epidemiologist Þórólfur Guðnason.

Willum Þór hopes, however, that some easing of restrictions will be possible earlier than two weeks from now, that is, if data suggest that to be safe.

Willum states that uncertainty remains regarding the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.

He admits that opinions varied at the government meeting regarding how fast restrictions should be lifted, but in the end, the unanimous decision was that current restrictions should be extended by two weeks.

In short, the rules that took effect November 19 remain in effect. They are as follows:

A maximum of 50 people may convene.

A one-meter social distancing rule remains in effect.

The use of face masks remains mandatory in stores, public transportation, and wherever the one-meter social distancing rule can’t be respected.

Events can be held with a maximum of 500 people in each space, provided everyone born 2015 and earlier can present the negative result of a rapid COVID-19 test, taken no more than 48 hours prior.

Swimming pools and fitness centers may receive up to 75 percent of the number of guests their licenses permit.

Bars and restaurants may receive guests until 10 pm, and everyone must leave the premises by 11 pm.  A record must be kept of the guests’ names.