Restrictions in Iceland Might Be Lifted Sooner Than Planned

The Icelandic government, in cooperation with the chief epidemiologist, is looking into easing restrictions sooner than originally announced, including making changes to rules regarding isolation and quarantine, mbl.is reports.

Chief Epidemiologist Þórólfur Guðnason is hopeful Iceland’s battle against COVID will be over by the end of March.

“The COVID-19 situation has improved, and the hospital is under less stress,” Þórólfur stated at a press coference this morning. “In my mind, it is advisable to continue the gradual easing of restrictions, based on the current situation. I hope restrictions can be eased faster than announced last week.”

“We’re looking at whether time in isolation can be simplified, quarantine further simplified, in addition to evaluating general restrictions included in the regulation,” he added.

Yesterday, the operation of Landspítali National University Hospital was moved from an emergency phase to an alert phase, as was the operation of the Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management regarding COVID-19.

“I’m hopeful we’ll reach the finishing line in this fight, this long-distance race, the latter part of March, and even sooner, provided nothing unexpected happens,” Þórólfur stated.

“I urge everyone to unite in doing what has to be done during the final stretch of this marathon,” he concluded.