New Coronavirus Restrictions In Effect

New restrictions to avoid the spread of coronavirus in Iceland have been implemented, Fréttablaðið reported this morning. The Icelandic government has declared a state of emergency and the new restrictions came into effect at midnight last night.

The maximum capacities for various social gatherings have changed, with the new number restrictions as follows:

A limit of 20 people in a given area for general meetings.

A limit of 30 people in schools and universities.

A limit of 50 people for funerals.

A limit of 50 people for competitive sports.

Maximum capacity of 100 people in shops under a thousand square metres, though larger shops will have a maximum capacity of 200.

A limit of 100 spectators at outdoor sports matches.

Further rules introduced include the closure of pubs, gyms, entertainment venues and arcades. Swimming pools will remain open at 50% capacity, and the one-metre-rule will remain in force with the obligation to wear a mask wherever it is not possible to guarantee a one-metre distance.

There are some exceptations to these new rules: for example, in parliament, courts, and amongst emergency response parties. Buses are also exempt from the 20 person maximum; however, it is now obligatory to wear a mask at all times on buses. There will also be a mask obligation in social centres for senior citizens.

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