Austria is imposing a brand new nationwide lockdown from Monday on individuals not absolutely vaccinated in opposition to the coronavirus or lately recovered from the illness, Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg announced Sunday.
These affected can be advised to remain at dwelling aside from important journeys like for work or buying. The choice is predicted to impression some 2 million individuals from the inhabitants of 9 million.
The choice comes because the nation grapples with its highest charges of an infection because the pandemic started. On Saturday, Austria reported over 13,000 new cases. In the meantime, its vaccination fee at 63 p.c is beneath the EU common and much behind international locations equivalent to Portugal, Malta and Spain that are above 80 p.c.
“We’ve got to boost the vaccination quota,” Schallenberg mentioned. “Assist us break this fourth wave.”
Talking on the similar information convention, Well being Minister Wolfgang Mückstein mentioned the measures have been wanted to ease strain on well being providers. “All of us have one purpose: to guard the intensive care items,” he mentioned.
The nationwide lockdown follows a call Friday to impose restrictions for the unvaccinated within the area of Higher Austria
