Possible changes in restrictions

This week, the government is preparing a new table of anti-coronavirus measures - and is considering perks for people with a negative test.

Right now, Czechia is at the strictest fifth level of the anti-epidemic PES system which is being modified to reflect the introduction of antigen testing or the number of hospitalized patients. By the end of the week, a new table of restrictions should be ready.

It will determine which services and businesses will be able to operate under specific conditions. According to the Minister of Industry and Trade Karel Havlíček (for ANO), some of them could possibly reopen in the second half of January.

According to Havlíček, the cabinet is discussing letting people with a negative coronavirus test go to the restaurant or theatre. Even at level five of the PES system, it could also be possible to visit a hairdresser or a fitness centre - if the hairdressers or trainers were vaccinated or had a negative antigen test - says Tomáš Prouza, President of the Association of Trade and Tourism.

On Thursday, the government should also decide on reopening the ski resorts. Minister Havlíček is advocating that they open as soon as possible because he believes it is better to let them operate under specific rules. During the holidays, many people sledged and skied anyway with no restrictions or supervision in place.