Faced with the increase in the epidemic and the influx of tourists, the prefect imposed new restrictions until January 4.
With an incidence rate of 896 per 100,000 inhabitants as of December 21 according to Public Health France, against an average of 598 in the rest of the country, Savoie is one of the departments where the Covid-19 epidemic is the most virulent. A phenomenon further amplified by the arrival of many tourists who come to enjoy the ski slopes during the Christmas holidays. In an attempt to curb the spread of the virus, the prefecture announced a series of measures, in force at least until January 4.
Wearing a mask is once again compulsory for anyone over eleven years old during gatherings of more than ten people, as well as in markets, flea markets or in queues. In ski resorts, especially Chambéry, Aix-les-Bains and Albertville, wearing a mask is compulsory outdoors in all circumstances from 9 a.m. to midnight.
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The consumption of alcoholic beverages on public roads and in public outdoor spaces is prohibited from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. In ski resorts the restrictions are much more severe. The ban on drinking alcohol applies from 4 p.m. and it is also forbidden to consume food while standing indoors (bars, restaurants, cable cars, etc.).
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No fireworks
All festive outdoor events, torchlight descents, fireworks … on public roads and in private spaces are prohibited on December 31, 2021 between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. the next day.
In the event of non-compliance with these measures, the individual is liable to a fine of 135 euros the first time. In the event of a repeat offense within 15 days, the fine would increase to 1,500 euros. Finally, if the violation is repeated more than three times within a period of thirty days, the offender risks up to six months of imprisonment, a fine of 3,750 euros as well as an additional sentence of community service.
Measures in Haute-Savoie also
The situation is similar in the neighboring department of Haute-Savoie. Faced with a massive arrival of tourists and a degraded health situation, the prefecture has decided to strengthen its arsenal of measures aimed at curbing the spread of the virus. Alcohol consumption and public festivities are prohibited on December 31, as are fireworks-type events. Likewise, wearing a mask is compulsory outside for any gathering. In some towns it is compulsory in all circumstances from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m.
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The whole country has been facing a very strong rise in the epidemic for several weeks. Friday, December 24, more than 94,000 new cases were detected, an absolute record in France since the start of the epidemic in March 2020. In an attempt to stem the fifth wave, the government is banking on an acceleration of the recall campaign as well as on the opening of vaccination at 5-11 years, without it being compulsory. However, new measures could quickly be announced, the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron, having planned to meet a health defense council on Monday, December 27.