Christmas lockdown for three weeks across Slovakia

Lockdown will be in force for at least three weeks in each district throughout Slovakia, Prime Minister Igor Matovič (OĽaNO) said at a press conference on Wednesday. In regions with the worst epidemiological situation, lockdown may last several weeks longer. PM added that the new restrictive COVID-19 measures would not lead to Slovakia shutting down its borders to people travelling into the country from abroad. Churches, cinemas and gyms will stay open with the same restrictions they operate under presently, chief hygienist Ján Mikas confirmed on Wednesday. Outdoor seating areas at restaurants will be shut down as of Friday, December 11, with restaurants only allowed to sell take-away meals. All stores in Slovakia will close as of December 21 except for grocery stores, pharmacies and drug stores. Ski resorts, hotels and other operations at these resorts will remain open, but under more stringent conditions. As of December 14, visitors to ski resorts will need negative COVID-19 tests not older than 72 hours.