Switzerland announces sweeping new Covid-19 restrictions
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29.10.2020 в 10:35
The Swiss government announced on Wednesday a range of strict Covid-19 measures which will apply from Thursday.

Mask requirement to be expanded

Just over a fortnight after Switzerland expanded mask rules to all publicly accessible indoor areas, the federal government expanded the rules once again. 

From midnight on Thursday, October 28th, masks should be worn outdoors in all built-up urban areas where "the concentration of people does not allow the necessary distances to be respected".

Masks would also be required in all publicly accessible indoor spaces, such as markets, waiting areas for buses and trains, etc. 

Diners at restaurants are be allowed to remove their masks when sitting down to eat. 

Masks are required at the workplace - including all offices - unless one cannot be worn for safety reasons. 

Curfew for bars and restaurants 

Restaurants and bars are forced to close from 11pm to 6am. 

Guests must sit and can only eat or drink at the table. A maximum of four people can sit at each table, excluding children. 

Events

There would be a limit of 50 people for all public events.

Private events

Groups of more than 10 people are not allowed to meet under the proposed rules. 

This includes all private events such as birthdays and weddings. 

No disco

Clubs and discos must close, while dancing would be prohibited. 

School's out

Universities are again forced to return to distance learning. Face-to-face teaching remains allowed in compulsory schools and upper secondary schools (grammar schools and vocational training). 

These measures will apply from November 2nd, rather than October 29th. 

Sports

Contact sports are prohibited. 

Indoor sports without physical contact are not allowed to have more than 15 participants, with the exception of professional sports. 

Masks would need to be worn during indoor sports, unless distance can be maintained - for instance playing tennis in large halls. Masks are not required during outdoor sports if distance can be maintained. 

Rehearsals and concerts

Rehearsals and concerts with more than 15 people would be prohibited under the new rules. 

For those with fewer than 15 people, masks must be worn. Concerts with singing - such as choirs - are completely prohibited.