Luxembourg tightening COVID-19 measures before the holiday season

The Grand Duchy has taken decisive action to crеate major incentives for people to get the vaccine

On Thursday evening, the government of Luxembourg introduced new Covid-restrictions with their main goal being to get more people to get the vaccine. Another aim of the restrictions is to curb the spread of the disease before the winter holidays, as infections have been steadily on the rise since mid-November.

One of the big takeaways from the new regulation is the introduction of a Covid-pass at work. Starting from 15 January, workers will have to show proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative PCR. The other major point is barring the unvaccinated from going to restaurants, bars and other entertainment venues starting from today until 22 February.

There are also a slew of minor regulations and amendments that, according to Health Minister Paulette Lenert should encourage the unvaccinated to take the jab.

Vaccination, boosters and exemptions  

An important point for a lot of people who cannot get the vaccine for medical reasons is that health authorities will be able to issue out exemption certificates. This is because pandemic measures are getting tighter and with the slow spread of the Omicron variant, the government really wants to make the distinction between people who cannot get the vaccine and people who do not want to get the vaccine.

In fact, health authorities in the Grand Duchy have recorded the highest number of daily new cases this year on Tuesday with 711. Currently, there are 79 people in the hospital with 24 in intensive care units. This, according to Minister Lenert is causing hospitals to postpone operations, putting strain on the healthcare system.

To increase vaccination rates, the government has decided to introduce vaccinations in pharmacies, as well as additional testing measures in retirement homes, hospitals and prisons. Businesses will also get authorisation to carry out identity checks so they can enforce the new regulations for entry.

Finally, authorities will shorten the schedule for booster shorts to five months, based on recommendations from the Superior Council of Infectious Diseases – a Luxembourgish healthcare body.