Restrictions to curb Omicron spread in force from today

The 11-point restrictions, imposed by the government to prevent the highly contagious new COVID-19 variant Omicron, began on Thursday. The Cabinet Division on January 10 issued a notification regarding this.

The notification said considering the current situation of Omicron infections and the decisions taken by the COVID-19 situation review committee, restrictions on overall activities and movement are going to be imposed from January 13. The restrictions will remain effective until further notice.

Mask use has been made mandatory at shops, shopping malls, bazars, hotels and restaurants and all public places. If one violates the rules, legal action will be taken against him or her.

All must use masks in offices and courts as well. If the health guidelines are not followed, mobile courts will have to be conducted across the country, the notification said.

COVID-19 vaccine certificates must be shown when dining in restaurants or staying at hotels.

Without vaccine certificate, a student, over the age of 12, will not be allowed to attend in-person classes after the specific timeframe set by the Education Ministry.

Scanning facility must be increased at land ports, seaports and airports. The restriction must be imposed on the exits of crews of ships at ports. Only drivers of trucks will be allowed at land ports. The access of visitors accompanying passengers must be stopped at airports.

Trains, buses and launches will carry passengers at half capacity.

Drivers and helpers of all types of vehicles must have COVID-19 vaccine certificates.

Home-bound passengers and others concerned must show COVID-19 vaccine certificates.

Imams will aware people concerned about the health safety guidelines and mask use in their sermons of Jummah prayers at all mosques. Deputy Commissioners and Upazila Nirbahi Officers will ensure this matter.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will take necessary publicity and other measures in accelerating COVID-19 vaccination and its booster dose inoculation. In this regard, it will take assistance from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry.

All social, political and religious functions will remain closed at open space until further notice.

In case of any special situation created in any area, the local administration can take action in consultation with the authorities concerned, the notification said.

ARR