The fact that the delta variant of the corona virus is driving up the number of infections was cited by Health Minister Wolfgang Mckstein (Greens) as a reason for tightening individual corona measures from July 22nd. As reported, only those who have been vaccinated or who have a negative PCR test are allowed to visit the night catering.
The reactions were different. The Chamber of Commerce showed understanding for the concern about the increasing numbers, but appealed to “take necessary measures with a sense of proportion and caution”. The measures would have such an effect that many young people do not have themselves tested or vaccinated “and the private area is used more again or even the public places”, said Klaus Friedl from the catering division in the Styrian Chamber of Commerce.
“Not two free tracks”
Medical Association President Thomas Szekeres and the microbiologist Michael Wagner from the University of Vienna again pleaded for a mask requirement in interior rooms.
The President of the Medical Association of Upper Austria, Peter Niedermoser, went further. He argues that corona tests will no longer be offered free of charge from autumn. Since everyone can now be vaccinated free of charge and with the vaccine of their choice, there is no longer any need for two free bars. “In the end, it shouldn’t be the case that society has to pay for individuals’ unwillingness to vaccinate,” says Niedermoser. He sees the decision of the federal government in favor of night catering as a “good and right step”.
What exactly is meant by post-gastronomy is not yet entirely clear: The details of the regulation are just being finalized, it said on Friday at a request from the Ministry of Health. So far there is no precise legal definition, generally discos, bars and nightspots are meant: In the Chamber of Commerce one speaks of companies with main business from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
From Thursday to Friday, 341 new corona infections were again reported in Austria. 90 percent of these are attributable to the delta variant, according to the federal Covid forecast consortium. The opening steps and the increased travel activity are called the “driving force”. For the next seven days, the consortium expects an average of 340 infections per day (most recently 240) and a seven-day incidence of 29. However, the workload in the hospitals will only change slightly. The infection rate is currently highest among those aged 15 to 24, with a seven-day incidence of 46.
Four youth organizations issued a non-partisan appeal to their peers on Friday: “Please go vaccinate!” Said Young VP, Socialist Youth, Junos and Green Youth.
EU authority: strong increase
The health authority ECDC expects the number of new infections in Europe to rise sharply – from 90 to 620 cases per 100,000 inhabitants at the beginning of August. The report came from Mallorca on Friday that quarantine hotels were full, and 1200 researchers in England are warning that the planned easing threatens the whole world.
