Austria eases partial lockdown as infection rates drop

Vienna, Austria – The government announced on Tuesday that the “exit restrictions” would expire on 1 May 2020. In a press conference, Health Minister Rudi Anschober announced the expiration of the initial restrictions at the end of April. For the time being, this applies until the end of June. Minister of Health Rudolf Anschober, Minister of Tourism Elisabeth Köstinger, Interior Minister Karl Nehammer and Minister of Economics Margarete Schramböck presented on Tuesday the new rules after the termination of the restrictions that will end on 31 April 2020. The Ministers…

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CHURCH SERVICES POSSIBLE FROM 15 MAY UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS

Since 16 March 2020, church services in Austria had been largely suspended. From 15 May 2020, church services will be held again throughout the country. Parallel to the currently  Covid 19 measures, a gradual opening has been prepared by the churches and religious communities in coordination with the Federal Government. Minister of Culture Susanne Raab (ÖVP) and Cardinal Christoph Schönborn presented these on a press conference on Thursday. High risk of infection during church services Minister Susanne Raab emphasized that the time has now come to take a “step towards…

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UPDATE: Restrictions in Austria – more social distancing and wearing of masks

A miracle would have to happen and the spread of COVID-19 would be minimized or even stopped through an effective drug or even a vaccination: Otherwise, significant restrictions on our movement will remain in place for a number of months. We will have to wear masks and observe social distancing. We will not be allowed to leave Austria – and tourists will hardly or not at all be allowed to enter Austria. Unless they are guaranteed that they are negatively tested from corona virus. We cannot visit any parties or…

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EASTER IN CORONA TIMES – WHAT IS ALLOWED?

The corona virus makes it necessary that we refrain from many traditions during Easter this year. What exactly applies to the holidays? Am I allowed to go away by car/motorbike at Easter? This year the Easter egg hunt should only take place within the immediate family members. Any low-risk behaviour is recommended by the Ministry of Health to keep the burden on the health system as low as possible. This includes hiking in the mountains and, of course, riding a motorcycle. As a general rule, the Easter egg hunt should…

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COVID 19 – FAQs on what is allowed and what is not permitted to do in Austria

Yesterday, 6. April 2020 the Austrian Federal government presented a timetable on the way back to normality. At the same time, Chancellor Sebastian Kurz disclosed new regulations. Here are some of the important questions and answers on what is now allowed and what is not permitted to do: Can I celebrate Easter with my family? Unless you live in the same household: NO! The current restrictions have been extended until the end of April. This means that there are only four reasons to leave the house: to go to work,…

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UPDATE! Austria`s next steps in the fight against COVID 19

On Monday, Chancellor Sebastian Kurz presented the next steps in the fight against the corona crisis and a first roadmap on the way back to normality. For the time being, small shops are to reopen from 14 April, and from 1 May the entire retail sector. The obligation to wear protective masks will be extended, and the initial restrictions extended. Trade and services: From 14. April 2020 small shops for the sale of goods and craft Enterprises and garden centers can reopen under the following conditions: max. 400 square meters…

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