The French Prime Minister has confirmed that France is closing its borders to all non-European Union countries. This government has decided this new travel restriction to prevent different COVID variants from entering the country. Moreover, travellers from the EU will have to show a negative PCR test, as well.
Later UK transport secretary Grant Shapps clarified that this restriction would not apply to hauliers and the trade will continue smoothly.
French Prime Minister Jean Castex also added that all large malls or shopping centres would remain close. The government has also ordered to increase police checks of people who violate France’s 12-hour a day curfew.
Prime Minister also mentioned that he’s aware of lockdown’s grave impact. Our duty is to do everything to avoid another lockdown and upcoming days are very crucial.
A few weeks ago, many scientific advisers believed that France would require a third lockdown as soon as possible. The health officials have reported more cases of infections and deaths recently. As a result, coronavirus patients are now occupying more than 60% of intensive care beds. Also, the country has recorded more than 75,000 deaths from COVID-19.
Due to Pfizer and Moderna’s supply issues, France’s efforts to deploy the vaccine rollout are also slowed. According to the health ministry, the government has vaccinated more than 1.45 million people so far.
