Measures might tighten further

On Thursday afternoon, the government will discuss tightening the anti-Covid measures even more - said Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO).

According to Babiš, the current epidemiological situation does not allow for any loosening of the anti-coronavirus restrictions. On the contrary, it is necessary to consider how to enforce or tighten the existing ones, said the PM.

The cabinet has been preparing a new table for the anti-epidemic PES system that might allow for more pupils in schools or for opening fitness centres for people with a negative coronavirus test even in the strictest fifth level. It previously said these changes should apply from February 1.

However, the Minister of Education, Youth and Sports Robert Plaga (for ANO) has already said that nothing will change for schools from February 1. Later that month, more students could return to classrooms if the Ministry of Health comes up with a model of regular Covid-19 testing in schools - for example with gargling tests.