Government introduces strictest level of corona measures in all municipalities in Viken

The Norwegian government introduced the strictest level of corona measures throughout Viken county and Gran Municipality in Innlandet.

“There is a sharp increase in infection in Viken. The municipalities’ work with testing and infection tracing is under great pressure,” Minister of Health and Care Services Bent Høie (H) noted in a press release.

The Ministry of Health and Care Services’ decision in the case is based on advice from the Norwegian Directorate of Health and the National Institute of Public Health (FHI).

On Monday, the municipalities in Viken met with the health authorities and the State Administrator. A majority of the municipalities wanted measures at the A level. 13 of the municipalities did not want these measures, while three were unsure.

“Although there are variations in the infection situation in Viken, strict and coordinated measures are important… Equal measures for the whole county will make it easier to understand and follow the rules,” Høie said.

Shops closed

The A level of measures is defined as a “particularly high level of measures.” That means, among other things, that all who are able to do so have to work from home. Furthermore, shops have to be closed, and kindergartens and schools have to operate at the “yellow” level.

It also means that, among other things, gyms, swimming pools, libraries, museums, and cinemas must be closed. Restaurants must also be closed, but they may offer takeaway.

All events outside one’s home are prohibited, both indoors and outdoors, with the exception of funerals and burials.

The measures will last until and including Sunday, April 11.

Exceptions for outdoor activities

It is not allowed to organize sports and leisure activities for adults and young people.

Exceptions are made for outdoor sports and leisure activities for children and young people under the age of 20 in groups of less than ten people, as long as they are from the same municipality. 

“Due to consideration for children and young people, it should be possible for them to maintain a certain level of activity, even when the infection situation is so unclear that very intrusive infection control measures are necessary,” Høie warned in the press release.

Source: © NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today / #NorwayTodayNews

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