A number of key COVID-19 restrictions are set to stay in place until at least August 23. That comes after Taiwan’s Central Epidemic Command Center extended the country’s Level 2 COVID-19 Alert for another two weeks.
Health Minister Chen Shih-chung announced the extension at a press conference on Monday. He says authorities have looked closely at other countries’ experiences of relaxing restrictions, and decided to keep most measures in place. That means certain venues will remain closed, including bars and nightclubs.
However, swimming pools will be allowed to open starting Tuesday, as long as they follow health authorities’ guidance.
Restrictions will remain in place on large gatherings. Indoor gatherings have a limit of 50 people, while outdoor gatherings can have up to 100.
People also have to wear masks outside the house at all times, apart from when eating or drinking.
Health Minister Chen is asking people to continue wearing a mask, washing hands frequently and keeping social distance.