Emergency restriction measures on Nicosia, Limassol districts

Emergency restriction measures are to be imposed on the Nicosia and Limassol districts on Tuesday in response to the climbing figure of new coronavirus cases being detected, mainly at workplaces and after family gatherings.

According to the health ministry’s new rules for the two districts, gatherings at homes and public spaces cannot exceed 10 people, including minors.

Additionally, there can be no more than 10 people to a table at food and drink businesses, which are permitted to serve no more than 75 people indoors and 150 people outdoors. The measure requiring tables to be three square metres apart indoors and two square metres apart outdoors will remain in place.

Religious services cannot be attended by over 75 people, who must abide by the protocols already in place governing places of worship and religious services.

Sports matches can continue to take place, given that relevant protocols are followed, but without the presence of fans. The health ministry issued a strong suggestion to Nicosia and Limassol fans whose teams have matches in other districts that they don’t travel from their cities to where the match is taking place, even if measures are not in place for that area.

The operation of cinemas, theatres, and event halls are permitted to operate, but can host up to 75 people indoors and 150 indoors.

Regarding weddings and baptisms, the health ministry said cocktail parties are forbidden, while these events can only offer a maximum of 350 attendants a meal.

The measures will by placed into immediate effect through a decree to be issued by the health ministry on Tuesday, and will remain in place for a period of ten days, until October 23.

The health ministry called on employers and employees to strictly abide by health protocols in place, as recent data shows an increase in chains of infection developing at workplaces, indicating an unsatisfactory adherence to guidelines.