New measures have been recently adopted by the governments of the Central and Eastern European countries to contain the spread of the new coronavirus.
Wearing masks became mandatory in the crowded outdoor spaces in most countries, while gatherings allow a limited number of people, schools are functioning online only or in a hybrid model, and restaurants are allowed to trade at limited capacity.
Czechia
In Czech Republic, the Government ordered all non-essential shops to close and tightened other social distancing rules starting 22 October. In the past two weeks, the country registered the highest number of COVID-19 new infections since the beginning of the pandemic, and the highest in the CEE.
In addition, restaurants in Czech malls operate only for take away orders and deliveries.
The Government communicated its support for all affected retailers and provides a subsidy of 50% of the rent and related charges, with no subsidy requested from landlords.
In addition, the government covers 100% of payroll costs for companies affected by the restrictions.
Romania
In Romania, restrictions relate to temporary closing entertainment spaces in the cities/regions where the number of infections has exceeded 3 cases/1.000 inhabitants, while indoor restaurants in such regions can only operate for take away orders and deliveries.
This is the case in three of the Romanian biggest cities, capital Bucharest, Timisoara and Cluj-Napoca.
Poland
In Poland, temporary restrictions have been implemented for fitness clubs and swimming pools. In addition, from 24 October onwards, indoor restaurants will operate only for take away orders and deliveries.
Slovakia
In Slovakia, indoor restaurants only operate for take away orders and deliveries, while entertainment tenants temporarily suspended their activities.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is introducing more restrictions as coronavirus infections remained high. In the capital Sofia, bars, clubs and discos will close for two weeks.
The order for the temporary closure will become effective on October 25 and will be in place until November 8.
