The Prime Minister and the Minister of Health detailed a new series of measures to try to curb the fifth wave during a press conference on Monday. They also recommended that the French “slow down” in their social interactions and limit “convivial moments” indoors in both private and professional spheres, in an effort to curb the fifth wave.
Here they are (in summary):
Strengthened health protocol in primary schools
Students and staff will be required to wear masks both indoors and outdoors. It will also be necessary to once again limit mixing by level and by class during meal times. At this stage, there is no plan to bring forward the end-of-year school holidays.
The closure of nightclubs for four weeks
The affected businesses will be “economically supported” by the State, specified Jean Castex.
Vaccination for at-risk 5-11 year olds available from December 15
Vaccination for children aged 5 to 11 at risk of severe forms of COVID-19 will be available from December 15, as recommended by the Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS). The government is awaiting scientific opinions to extend vaccination to all children in this age group.
People aged 65 and over can get vaccinated without an appointment
French citizens aged 65 and over can receive a COVID vaccine booster dose without an appointment, regardless of the center they visit.
Remote work requested from “all companies that can do it”
The government has advocated the extension of remote work, up to three days a week in the public sector, and two to three days elsewhere if possible.
