By Agnes Szucs
BRUSSELS (AA) – Belgium on Wednesday decided to further ease the coronavirus-related restrictions in the country.
Cafes, restaurants and gyms will reopen in Belgium on June 8, the country’s premier announced.
Belgium’s National Security Council concluded that the country could follow its exit plan after the analysis of the epidemiological situation.
According to their decision, cafes, bars and restaurants can welcome their costumers as of Monday after a three-month long break.
However, they need to follow serious hygiene and distancing rules to prevent the spread of the virus.
Waiters must wear facial masks, while a 1.5-meter distance needs to be kept between tables.
Gyms can also reopen with certain restrictions. Clients would not be able to use the changing rooms or take showers, and they will be highly encouraged to reserve time slots for work out or training.
Religious services will also resume with the attendance of up to 100 people.
If the COVID-19 statistics conform, the next phase of easing the restrictions may start from July 1 with the reopening of swimming pools, spas, as well as cultural events with an audience of up to 200 people.
The gradual easing of restrictions started.
Belgium has been one of the most severely affected countries in Europe, but it has seen a significant improvement over the past month.
In total, more than 58,685 people have been infected by the virus, with 9,522 deaths.
Since appearing in China last December, the virus has spread to at least 188 countries and regions, according to figures compiled by the US-based Johns Hopkins University's Coronavirus Resource Center.
More than 6.44 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed worldwide, with over 382,400 deaths, and more than 2.76 million recoveries.
