The Netherlands relaxed its restrictions drastically two weeks ago, reopening nightclubs opened and ditching mouth masks. Now, we’re in trouble. Prime Minister Mark Rutte and Minister of Health Hugo de Jonge have returned to the podium once again to announce a new range of measures.
The prime minister began by saying “Over the past week everyone has been able to see that a cloud has been put in front of the sun.” Truer words have never been spoken, Rutte.
The past week has been riddled with bad news regarding coronavirus. From false negative tests, to clusters of outbreaks in clubs and the cancellation of hundreds of vaccines. This has all resulted in a huge spike in coronavirus cases.
This morning, it was announced that restrictions would indeed be brought back in. Rutte has described the following measures as “not fun but necessary.” The changes will take effect from tomorrow, July 10 at 6 AM and will last until August 13.
Rutte explained that in order to control the spread of coronavirus, the Netherlands is going to have to change its behaviour when it comes to the catering, and cultural and entertainment sectors.
Catering industry to close from midnight until 6 AM
As of tomorrow, if you want to enjoy a meal out or a drink in a café you’re going to have to take a fixed seat. The seats must also allow for a 1.5-metre distance between guests.
No more clubbing
That boogie on the dancefloor has proven to be short-lived. There will be no more ‘Dancin’ with Janssen.’ Discos and nightclubs will shut their doors once again.
Access tests proved to be problematic when preventing coronavirus outbreaks in these situations and will be reconsidered on August 13.
Large cultural/sporting events
Large scale events will also have to ensure that visitors are seated and maintain a 1.5-metre distance from each other.
Access testing may be used in order to increase the capacity to a maximum of two-thirds. However, these tests must be no more than 24 hours old (previously 40.) An event may last a maximum of 24 hours — so forget those three-day festivals.
Transfer locations will see little change
Things will remain the same when it comes to transfer locations. There have been no new measures brought in for shops, restaurants or fairgrounds.
Are you surprised by the latest developments? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!
Feature Image: Press Conference
I think they removed too soon the use of mouth masks in closed environment.
People here were already reluctant on using them, now they almost kiss each other.
I really cannot understand how were they surprised. How do you remove the mouth mask at this point, with huge part of the population about to get the second dose in July?
Mainly inside supermarkets and closed spaces? Mouthmasks are very efficient to prevent Covid.
If the mouth mask obligation was not lifted, I believe the numbers would still raise, but not explode as they are doing. The rise would be much softer and would still be possible to not raise restrictions for bars/ restaurants.
Too early.
This is all about control. Creater of the so called pcr tests drosten even said they cannot differentiate between any viruses