European leaders reinstating coronavirus restrictions
Written by News Room on December 23, 2021
European leaders are reinstating coronavirus restrictions as the new Omicron variant continues to spread through the continent.
Germany and Portugal are among nations announcing post-Christmas curbs and greater social distancing measures.
Omicron is already the dominant strain in many European countries.
The surge will push health systems towards the brink of collapse, the World Health Organization’s top official in the continent has warned.
Germany announced that from 28 December limits would return that restrict private gatherings to 10 people and nightclubs would close. Football matches from that date will also be played behind closed doors.
Meanwhile Portugal ordered bars and nightclubs to shut from 26 December, and made working from home obligatory from that date until 9 January. Outdoor gatherings will be limited to 10 people.
Bars and restaurants in Finland will have to close at 22:00 on 24 December, as the Nordic nation sees infections at a record level.
Ameen Kantyok
