Poland’s Health minister Adam Niedzielski presented a list of new epidemiological restrictions related to the upcoming holiday season and the spread of the Omikron variant of the coronavirus. 

The most important modification is the introduction of distance learning for primary and secondary school students and the reduction of the number of guests in restaurants and cinemas, among others. 

“For a week and a half, the average daily number of infections has been at the level of 23.000. However, there is no clear decline in these statistics. In addition, the new Omikron variant is a very risky element,” Adam Niedzielski explained.

From the 15th of December, restaurants, bars, cinemas, theatres, sports and religious facilities will only be allowed to let in 50% of the local’s total capacity. It is worth mentioning that this limit may be increased only for vaccinated people. Clubs and other dancing facilities will be closed until further due.

Public transports will be allowed to carry a maximum of 75% of the vehicle’s capacity. People living under the safe roof as someone contaminated with the virus will be subjected to mandatory tests. All people arriving from outside the Schengen area will also have to take the COVID-19 test.

From the 20th of December until the 9th of January, pupils from primary and secondary schools will be learning from home. Concerning New Year’s Eve, the number of people in closed premises will be limited to 100, excluding the vaccinated.

From the 1st of March, vaccination will be compulsory for three professional groups: medics, teachers and uniformed services.

When asked about the situation of the entrepreneurs such as restaurant owners, Deputy Minister of Health Waldemar Kraska stated they may soon be asked to verify the vaccination status of their customers. 

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen

Photo: Caroline Byczynski