Netherlands: Netherlands announces strict lockdown through at least Jan. 19 due to rising COVID-19 activity /update 17

Event

The government of the Netherlands has announced plans to impose a nationwide lockdown as part of the country's effort to counter increasing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection rates. The directive will remain in force through at least Jan. 19 and includes the following provisions:

Effective 0001 Dec. 15
All non-essential retail stores must close; essential retail businesses, such as supermarkets, bakeries, butcher shops, and pharmacies, may remain open. Cinemas, amusement parks, museums, and other similar facilities accessible to the public must close. Non-medical contact services, such as barbershops and hair salons, are to close; medical contact services, including dentist and physical therapist offices, may continue operating. All indoor and outdoor gatherings are limited to two persons; three persons may gather at private homes on Christmas. Hotels may operate but cannot serve food or drink. Libraries and community centers may operate under certain strict limitations.

Effective Dec. 16
Schools at all education levels are restricted to conducting classes via distance learning techniques. Childcare availability will be limited to the children of persons employed in essential professions.

The new lockdown restrictions are in addition to measures already in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Under existing directives, all individuals are advised to stay home as much as possible and avoid nonessential travel. Anyone over the age of 13 must wear a protective face-covering in indoor public areas and on public transport. All food and beverage establishments are limited to takeout services only. Individuals must observe social distancing of 1.5 meters (5 feet) at all times, where possible.

Authorities in the Netherlands also stated on Dec. 14 that they would be updating the nation's COVID-related international travel regulations in the near future based on the recent lockdown declaration. While it still remains unclear what the new measures will entail or when they will be published, existing international entry restrictions are still in force as of late Dec. 14. As such, only travelers from European Economic Area (EEA) countries, Switzerland, and the UK, as well as residents of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Uruguay, remain permitted to enter. Exceptions may be made for individuals with an essential function or need, such as health workers, on-duty security forces, freight workers, and diplomats, though all such travelers are required to self-isolate for 10 days on arrival. Arrivals from the following countries must also self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival:

Andorra
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croatia
Curacao
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Faaborg-Midtfyn, Greve, Koge, Slagelse, Solrod
Estonia
Finland: Helsinki-Uusimaa region, including the cities of Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Ireland: counties Dublin, Donegal, Limerick, and Louth
Italy
Latvia
Lichtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
Norway: Oslo, Vestland, Viken
Poland
Portugal
Romania
San Marino
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain, except the Canary Islands
Sweden
Switzerland
The UK
Non-EEA countries other than Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Uruguay

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.