SDA

In the canton of Bern, a mask requirement will apply in shops, train stations and other publicly accessible indoor spaces from next Monday. The government council decided on Wednesday. He is reacting to the increasing number of coronavirus cases.

For a long time, the numbers in the canton of Bern were below the national average, said health director Pierre Alain Schnegg (SVP) in front of the media. Therefore, one has so far waited with the mask requirement. Now it is hoped that the measure will have an effect with the beginning of the colder season.

"The canton of Bern wants to protect people at risk and the freedoms they have gained," said Schnegg. The hygiene masks also served as an external sign. The whole population is called to remain vigilant. "It is very important that everyone obey the hygiene rules and, whenever possible, keep a distance of 1.5 meters."

The mask requirement applies in all publicly accessible indoor areas. This includes shops and shopping centers, but also train stations, post offices, museums, theaters, libraries, administrative buildings and places of worship. In restaurants, the mask can only be removed when sitting at the table.

Daycare centers and all schools that are subject to the supervision of the canton are exempt from the mask requirement.

The mask requirement applies until the end of January 2021. "As long as we do not have a vaccine, we will be accompanied by this virus," said Schnegg. The government council will closely monitor the development and extend the measure if necessary.

(Translated and edited from German by Yixuan Zhang)

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