March 24, 2020
The Dutch government has announced new Covid-19 measures to prevent an uncontrolled outbreak of the virus throughout the Netherlands.
New measures:
- Groups of more than 3 people who are not on at least 1,5 meters apart from each other can get fined.
- No more gatherings with more than 3 people up to June 1.
- Families can still go on the street together as long as they respect the 1,5 meters distance to other people.
- Children below 12 years can play together as long as they respect the 1,5 meters distance.
- All people are asked to work from home unless this is impossible.
- A walk in the park is allowed but alone.
- When one family member has fever, all family members stay at home. One person (who does not have any signs of illness) can do the shopping. An exception on this is for families with somebody who has a crucial profession (nurse/doctor/fire brigade/police/energy supply etc).
- No more than 3 visitors per household. The visitors need to stay on at least 1,5 meters from each other and you.
- No visitors in homes for elderly people.
- All contact-based companies (like hairdressers) are closed until April 6.
- Mayors will have the option of enacting an emergency bye-law, to more easily and more quickly initiate enforcement activities.
- Mayors can also order specific locations to be closed, including parks, beaches and campsites.
New Covid-19 measures in other countries
The above Covid-19 measures in practice mean a semi-lock down. Other countries, like Belgium, France, the UK, Italy and Spain know a total lock down where one may not leave the house without an approved goal.
What is still possible?
Despite of the Covid-19 measures there are still possibilities to join a new employer in the Netherlands, as I described in my last blog.
Most important: stay healthy and take care of yourself and each other!
