The Delta variant of the coronavirus is putting an end to the long-awaited return to normal conditions in several countries.
In Spanish Catalonia, the Netherlands and Malta, restrictions are being tightened after rising infection rates.
Cases have grown exponentially in recent days, according to the leader of the autonomous region in northeastern Spain. That means it's the end of the road for now - starting Saturday, nightclubs in Barcelona and the rest of the region will close again.
At the same time, requirements for a negative Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination are being introduced to participate in outdoor activities with more than 500 participants.
”"The pandemic is not over yet. The new variants are very contagious and large parts of the population are still not vaccinated," says spokesperson Patrícia Plaja during a press conference.
The Netherlands is also reintroducing restrictions on entertainment on Saturday after a sevenfold increase in new infections in the past week. Prime Minister Mark Rutte has decided to close all nightclubs and limit the opening hours of restaurants.
”"Not fun but necessary," says Rutte, regretting that the Dutch summer does not seem to be as relaxed as hoped.
”Everything pointed to a good summer – and we still hope so – but a cloud has eclipsed the sun.”
The island nation of Malta is experiencing concerns after rising infection rates. On Friday, Health Minister Chris Fearne announced that the country is closing its doors to unvaccinated travelers. As of July 14, only proof of vaccination is valid for those planning to spend their summer vacation on the Mediterranean island.
”We will be the first country in Europe to take this step,” says Fearne.
Source: TT
