Netherlands to Enter Nationwide Re-lockdown from 19th Due to Omicron Spread

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The Dutch government announced that it will reimpose nationwide lockdown measures to curb the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases caused by the Omicron variant.

According to foreign media including AFP on the 18th (local time), Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte stated at a press conference, "The Netherlands will enter lockdown again starting tomorrow," adding, "The fifth wave caused by the Omicron variant is approaching, making this unavoidable." Prime Minister Rutte emphasized, "The Omicron variant is spreading faster than expected, so the government must intervene as a preventive measure."

Accordingly, the Netherlands will begin nationwide lockdown measures from the 19th. Non-essential stores, pubs, restaurants, cinemas, performance venues, and museums, except for essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies, will be closed from the 19th until the 14th of next month. Schools are expected to remain closed at least until the 9th of next month. The number of guests citizens can invite to their homes will be reduced from 4 to 2, except on Christmas Day, December 25th.

Previously, based on high vaccination rates and a decrease in confirmed cases, the Netherlands had eased most COVID-19 restrictions and entered a "With Corona" policy starting September 25th. When visiting public places such as restaurants, pubs, and cultural events, people were required to present a vaccination certificate called the "Corona Pass." However, as cases surged afterward, partial lockdown measures were introduced last month, and recently, restrictions such as limiting nighttime operating hours for restaurants have been continuously strengthened.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.