Face Masks Now Mandatory in all Prague Shops and Offices

The Czech government approved a ban on going out without a face mask. The measure is valid as of this midnight. 

The Czech government has approved a ban on going out anywhere in public while not wearing a surgical mask or covering one’s nose and mouth with a scarf, as reported by Blesk.cz.

The measure is due to come into effect from midnight on Wednesday. There is a fine of up to 20,000 Kc for violations.

The measure will concern public buildings, state and municipal police services, health and social facilities. “As well as at supermarkets or train stations. Generally speaking, all the interior spaces. We will not extend the regulation to the external ones yet,” said Prague Mayor Hřib.

People will also have to cover their mouths and nose at public transport stops.

On Monday 16th, Prague’s mayor said on Twitter: “On Prague public transport, it is mandatory to have a covered mouth and nose! Whether you have medical masks, self-made masks, or use a scarf, anything is better than nothing.”

The Czech Republic, including its medical staff, faces a shortage of face masks and respirators.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the Czech Republic reached 464 on Wednesday morning, with 128 cases registered in the past 24 hours.

Over 1,300 tests have been conducted to date. Three people have fully recovered from COVID-19.