The “very rapidly increasing numbers” would actually require that the three planned stages be summarized and “implemented very promptly,” he said, according to 1- “Morgenjournal” on Saturday. After the government’s consultations with the provincial governors on Wednesday, he was still satisfied – after criticizing the hesitant approach in advance.
“I am pleased that the consistent Viennese way is being supported,” said Ludwig when he welcomed the package of measures. Now, however, he is “convinced that we have to proceed much more consistently”. He thinks one cannot wait, “looping-in regulations” are no longer appropriate, he said on Saturday in the “Morgenjournal”.
Health Minister Wolfgang Mckstein (Green) defended the plan, pointing out that decisions would only be implemented if they were made on a broad basis. He justified the fact that in stage 2 and 3 measures only come into effect seven days after the limit values have been exceeded – which in turn caused a lot of criticism – by stating that this was “transparent”. It takes time before the measures can be communicated to the population.
The plan announced on Wednesday provides for three stages, depending on the utilization of the intensive care units. From September 15, or at 10 percent intensive occupancy, FFP2 mask compulsory will apply again where mouth and nose protection is currently required (i.e. shops for daily basic needs) – and for unvaccinated people in the entire trade. In addition, “3G” then applies to events with 25 or more people, and antigen tests are only valid for 24 hours.
Level 2 (which is expected at the beginning of October) comes into force seven days after the 15 percent occupancy rate has been exceeded: 2G applies to night-time restaurants and events without seats with more than 500 visitors, only those who have been vaccinated or have recovered are allowed in. If more than 20 percent of the intensive care beds are corona-occupied, they lose their validity in stage 3 antigen tests – seven days later – in “3G” areas. Access is only possible for vaccinated, convalescent and with a PCR test.
