Head of the United Right government Mateusz Morawiecki spoke of a certain stabilization regarding the coronavirus pandemic, but immediately added that the number of deaths remains very worrying:

COVID-19 is unpredictable.

In mid-February, hotels, accommodation facilities, cinemas and theaters will open – at 50% capacity.

Physical activity in open areas is permitted. Gyms and fitness clubs will remain closed.

– This is a small step toward returning to normality – the prime minister added.

Update

Government:

We are introducing new, less restrictive safety rules. We are listening to the voices of entrepreneurs, but we are also in constant contact with medical professionals. Since the number of occupied beds and ventilators is now at a stable level, we want to return to normality. We are doing so with great caution. The virus is still dangerous – every day, more people with Covid-19 are admitted to hospitals. We want to avoid a new wave of infections. Excessive relaxation of the rules could lead to another major increase in the number of patients. For some people, Covid-19 is a fatal disease. That is why we are opening some facilities, but under a strict sanitary regime.

New rules. Still under a sanitary regime

United Right: – We are easing the restrictions, but for now we are conditionally introducing less restrictive measures – for two weeks. The health and lives of Poles are most important to us. Therefore, the safety rules still apply to all of us – this is very important.

When will the new restrictions come into force?

FROM FEBRUARY 12 TO FEBRUARY 26. Introduced conditionally for two weeks. The sanitary regime remains in force.

Details:

  • Hotels – available to everyone while maintaining the sanitary regime (50% of rooms available; meals served only in rooms, at guests’ request. Hotel restaurants – closed).
  • Cinemas, theaters, opera houses and philharmonics reopen – during cultural events, a maximum of 50% of seats may be occupied. Face masks are required. Consumption is prohibited.
  • Swimming pools open. ATTENTION! Water parks will remain closed.
  • Ski slopes open.
  • Outdoor sports fields, courts, etc. open – amateur outdoor sports resume.
  • Gyms remain closed.
  • Restaurants – as before – may provide takeaway and delivery meals.

The government adds:

The coronavirus has attacked human health, but also the economies of many countries around the world. We care about protecting the lives of Poles. We also remember the entrepreneurs who now need support. We want to return to the times before the pandemic, but every step must be taken carefully. Therefore, we constantly remind everyone – and this is very important – that much depends on us ourselves. The virus is still dangerous. We can try to avoid it by washing our hands regularly, maintaining distance and wearing masks. In winter, we should also air our homes regularly. These simple actions are very important.

The vaccine against Covid-19 offers the greatest hope of defeating the pandemic. Since December 27, 2020, approximately 1.5 million vaccinations have been administered at more than 5,000 Polish sites. At first, vaccines are being given to people at healthcare centers and those most at risk of becoming ill. We are also vaccinating seniors, and next week we will begin vaccinating teachers. We still have to wait a little for the effects of vaccination; we are still at the beginning of this process. Therefore, for now – let us take care of ourselves and others.

Press conference: