Health Minister issues decree banning gatherings of over 75 persons

A decree issued by the Health Minister on Wednesday solidified the government decision to ban public and private gatherings of over 75 persons.

Health Minister Constantinos Ioannou was authorized by the Cabinet on Tuesday to issue decrees under the Quarantine and Customs Law in view of the protection of public health as concern mounts regarding a potential further coronavirus spread.

The decree is in effect until March 31.

According to the decree, the population is banned from attending and remaining for long periods of time at public or private indoor gatherings of over 75 people.

The decree interprets “closed indoor spaces, of private or public use” as theatres, cinemas, restaurants, cafeterias, bars, ice cream shops, and events halls.

It clarified that the cap was placed at 75 people on the basis of population data and epidemiological criteria following recommendations from the World Health Organization and the European Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC).

The ban applies to any closed space even those that fall under larger roofs such as malls, supermarkets, hotels, hospitals, airports, army camps.

The decree states that the ban does not apply to cases where over 75 persons gather to conduct daily professional activities, such as in offices, companies, factories, etc, though basic hygiene guidelines are mandatory.

The ban also does not apply for short stays in closed spaces where over 75 people are gathered, such as for short stops at malls, supermarkets, and other indoor areas.