Omicron variant: additional screw turn in Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands

In Italy, the mask is becoming mandatory everywhere outdoors to fight against the spread of the Omicron variant and the rise in cases. “All Italians now have their faces covered, in the streets, in the squares, it is compulsory”, announces Alban Mickozy, live from Rome for France 3. One thing our neighbors were able to save: their Christmas party. “On the other hand, the government has been clear there will be no New Year’s celebrations in public places”, he explains.

In Belgium too, an additional turn of the screw was decided: cinemas and theaters will no longer be able to accommodate audiences. A decision that made some managers jump, while they achieve a good part of their turnover at the end of December. On the Dutch side, businesses are closing their doors, with the exception of food stores. “It is therefore Christmas and the end of year celebrations which will be held in a very particular atmosphere of health crisis”, summarizes Alban Mickozy.