Gradual easing of measures starts next week

The President’s Cabinet approved a gradual lift of a partial lockdown starting on Monday, with the health minister saying the decision was designed to avoid making hasty moves.

Health Minister Constantinos Ioannou announced on Wednesday at noon the gradual lifting of partial lockdown measures, which went into effect earlier this month.

“We are three weeks into a partial lockdown which went into effect on January 10 and an improvement of the epidemiological situation allows us to begin a gradual ease of restrictive measures,” Ioannou said.

The measures include the reopening of barber shops, hair salons, massage parlors and spas on Monday, February 1, along with an increase up to half of daily staff allowed in private businesses.

House gathering bans remain in place except visits by up to two persons, provided the guests are first or second degree relatives of the hosts.

Curfew will continue in the weeks to come, starting as always in the evening at 9pm until early morning at 5am every day.

The Text Service 8998 also remains in place for persons wishing to leave their place of residence for legitimate purposes by sending an SMS before going out up to twice a day.

A week later, February 8, public and private schools are set to reopen, along with retail shops including department stores and shopping malls.

Also, up to four persons will be allowed for house gatherings, while church services can take place with up to 50 people in attendance.

Health protocols and guidance rules as well as social distancing requirements remain in effect throughout the entire period of gradually easing restrictions.