Omicron is raging in Europe, but restrictions are winding down. The continent has made peace with the coronavirus.
| It’s still midwinter in Europe, but a big ray of sunny optimism has bathed the continent this week. The battle against COVID-19 is still afoot, but an armistice seems to be taking hold.
“Good morning to a completely open Denmark,” Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen told her Facebook followers.A day later, France eased its restrictions. No more caps on crowds at concerts or soccer matches. No more masks outdoors. No more compulsory working from home. Another round of easing will come in mid-February.
“This period of higher protection should be seen as a ceasefire that could bring us enduring peace,” Kluge said. Visitors to France must have had their second dose within the last 270 days, or they’ll need a booster.The booster jab is increasingly the norm in Europe, particularly given the impact it has on the omicron strain.
Austria’s law making the jab compulsory came into force this week, and will last for two years. Those who resist – and many seem prepared to – face fines of up to €3600 .
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