Covid-19: the curfew is back in Réunion

The measure will apply from Saturday, January 1, between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., for three weeks, in order to fight against the spread of the omicron variant.

Return to the curfew box in Réunion. The prefect of the island, Jacques Billant, announced on Wednesday the establishment of a curfew on the island from Saturday evening, from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m., for three weeks, due the deterioration of the health situation caused by the outbreak of the omicron variant. “We must act to curb the exponential circulation of the virus in the island since the start of the week”, explained the prefect during a press conference to justify the implementation of new restrictive measures.

They are in addition to those which apply throughout the national territory and those already introduced on the island, such as the obligation to wear a mask in all public spaces. Prime Minister Jean Castex announced Monday the reestablishment of the state of health emergency in Réunion until March 31.

Ban on public gatherings

“The health situation requires us to limit our social interactions in the weeks to come”, insisted Jacques Billant. In addition to the curfew which will apply the day after Christmas Eve on December 31, “A choice of confidence”, the prefect announced three other new measures.

First of all, the ban on cultural, sporting and commercial gatherings and events on public roads. Then the ban on private festive gatherings in municipal halls or municipal gymnasiums. Finally, gauges are re-established in all establishments open to the public, depending on the surface area of ​​establishments for all shops and markets.

Gauge in restaurants, cultural and sports facilities

Restaurants, bars, cinemas, performance halls, museums, libraries, sports establishments will be subject to a gauge of 75% of their maximum capacity. Tables are limited to 6 people in bars and restaurants.

“The situation is worrying again, as it was in August”, underlined the prefect. The incidence rate is 740 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, its highest rate since the start of the crisis. There are an average of 700 cases per day.

“We are now talking about hospital tension and pressure on the medical and resuscitation services”, added Jacques Billant who specifies that of the 89 intensive care beds, 84 were occupied on Tuesday, including 37 by Covid patients.