PES unchanged, bars closing earlier

From Wednesday, bars and restaurants (including take-out windows) will have to close by 8 p.m. - but the PES level will not change for now.

The risk score of the anti-epidemic PES system is currently 64 for the second day in a row. If it stays over 60 for three consecutive days, the government could tighten anti-coronavirus measures.

The Minister of Health Jan Blatný (for ANO) said that the Ministry would not propose a transition from the third to the fourth level of the PES system right now. According to him, the epidemic is stagnating.

Within a week, a new methodology of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) will be reflected in the calculation of the PES score, taking into account not only PCR but antigen tests as well, which would improve the final number.

The government decided to impose one additional restriction today - ordering pubs and restaurants to close at 8 p.m. After that, they will only be allowed to deliver food.

According to Blatný, the cabinet responded to frequent violations of anti-coronavirus measures in this sector. Some establishments added heated tents to their take-out windows, several bars were too crowded or open late. Also starting Wednesday, consuming food or alcohol at markets will be banned.