Austrian Chancellor highlights the importance of international efforts to combat the pandemic
International cooperation has an important role to play in preventing the second wave of coronavirus spread. This was stated by Federal Chancellor of Austria Sebastian Kurtz in an exclusive interview with a TASS correspondent. Coronavirus and its phenomena, such as wearing protective masks and social distance, will determine the life of our society for a long time to come. “At least until a vaccine is found. We need to learn how to live with this new normality”, Kurtz said. “International cooperation will be crucial to prevent the second wave of infection”. Since mid-April, Austria has become a pioneer in the EU to gradually ease the restrictions imposed due to the pandemic. Since May 1, the strict self-isolation mode of the population, when leaving the house was possible only in case of emergency, to the store, for an urgent work or a walk, is canceled in the country. To comply with sanitary measures, the population was obliged to wear protective masks in shops and vehicles, as well as to keep a distance of 1 m from others in public places. A self-isolation mode because of the coronavirus was introduced for the population in Austria on March 16. Public and sporting events were canceled, and cultural facilities, shopping centers, hotels and restaurants were closed. On April 14, authorities opened small shops and construction markets as the first step in lifting the restrictions imposed as part of combating the pandemic. Large stores, hairdressing saloons and sports fields open In May, and as of mid-May this will apply to hotels, restaurants, museums and schools.
