Finland, Covid restrictions change from August 1, Italy easier to reach
HELSINKI -- The current restrictions in Finland, introduced to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, were lifted on Saturday; however, the government and authorities stress that they are closely monitoring the situation and will make new decisions as needed.
In line with the regulation issued by the Regional State Administrative Agencies, public events and public meetings with over 500 participants may be held in indoor and enclosed outdoor spaces, provided they comply with the guidelines of the Finnish Institute for Health and Wellness * and those of the Ministry of Education and Culture on preventing COVID-19 infections.
Under the Communicable Diseases Act, regulations can be issued for a maximum of one month at a time. If the situation in Finland deteriorates significantly, the Regional State Administrative Agencies may amend their decisions on restrictions for August.
The Government’s recommendation on extensive remote work will end on 1 August. The Government will review the matter if the epidemic develops. The Government and the authorities are closely monitoring the development of the epidemic and the effects of lifting the restrictions. During the last monitoring period (20–26 July), a total of 51 new cases were reported to the communicable diseases register. The weekly number of cases has risen slightly and is now at the same level as at the end of June.
The restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic have been phased out gradually and in a controlled manner during the spring and summer. The Government’s objective has been to curb the epidemic while minimizing the adverse impact on people, businesses, society and the exercise of fundamental rights.
The national airline Finnair, also recalled that from August 2 reopens its air connections from Helsinki to Milan and Rome, a decision that will facilitate mutual tourist exchange.
*