Note: the date of this news report is October 13, 2020. See the Dutch approach and measures against the coronavirus.

Read the news report from October 13 in simple language.

More than we would like, the tightening of measures impacts society and the economy. But this step is necessary now so that a new perspective arises: a society in which we keep the virus under control. It is crucial that we keep 1.5 meters distance from others and continue to follow the basic rules. Everyone with symptoms gets tested and people with a positive test result stay at home. This can prevent the vast majority of infections.

Predictability

What we want is to intervene as targeted as possible. But the higher the number of infections, the less precise the measures. The visibility and predictability of the virus spread is strengthened by the testing policy, the corona dashboard with an added roadmap with 4 risk levels where it is clear to everyone which measures are needed at which moment, the CoronaMelder app as support for source and contact tracing, and tightened legislation and enforcement. This strengthens the visibility and predictability of the virus spread. This way we can quickly and targetedly adjust and counteract the spread of the virus where it flares up.

Follow-up

The national measures apply from Wednesday, October 14 at 22:00. In the weeks until October 27, the cabinet assesses what is needed for the period after. There must be sufficient evidence of a reduction in the number of infections and the pressure on regular healthcare before it can be said with certainty that the measures are effective and can be reconsidered.

The measures

Groups:

  • At home, you may receive a maximum of 3 persons per day.

  • In indoor spaces where people sit, a maximum number of 30 persons applies.

  • Inside (not at home) and outside, a group consists of a maximum of 4 persons from different households.

  • A household has no maximum number of persons

Daily life:

  • Work from home, unless it really cannot be otherwise.
  • From age 13, wear a face mask in public indoor spaces and public transport.
  • In secondary education (VO), MBO and higher education (HO), everyone wears a face mask outside lessons.
  • All food and drink establishments close their doors. Takeaway remains possible.
    • Exceptions are:
      • Hotels for hotel guests
      • Funeral centers
      • Airports beyond the security check
    • Locations with a combined function close the part with hospitality function
  • Retail stores close no later than 20:00. Shopping evenings are abolished.
    • Grocery stores may stay open later.
  • Between 20:00 and 07:00 no alcohol is sold or delivered.
  • It is not allowed to have or consume alcohol in public spaces between 20:00 and 07:00.
  • Events are prohibited, except for:
    • Markets for food
    • Fairs and congresses
    • Cinemas and theaters
    • Matches
    • Demonstrations, gatherings and meetings as defined in the Public Manifestations Act
  • In retail, agreements are made about strict compliance with protocols. If it gets too busy or basic rules are not followed, (part of) a location can be closed. Enforcement is tightened.
  • At so-called flow-through locations (e.g. monuments, libraries and museums), visits must be by reservation per time slot, except for retail and food markets.

Sports are only limited possible:

  • For everyone from 18 years, sports are only allowed at 1.5 meters distance and only individually or in teams of no more than 4 persons. Matches are not allowed.
  • Exceptions are:
    • Top athletes with status at designated locations (such as Papendal)
    • Football players (including other staff in “bubble”) of the Eredivisie and Eerste Divisie.
  • For children under 18 (team sports and matches within own club allowed).
  • Besides sports canteens, showers and changing rooms are also closed.

Travel:

  • Travel as little as possible
  • Stay as much as possible at your holiday address
  • Limit outings and avoid crowds
  • For abroad: follow travel advice from Foreign Affairs