Enhanced COVID-19 Precautions in Europe: Switzerland Strengthening Strategies Against Coronavirus
Swiss Federal Council Announces New Measures to Combat Coronavirus Epidemic
The Swiss Federal Council has announced a package of measures aimed at containing the rapidly increasing coronavirus epidemic in the country. The announcement was made at a meeting on December 11, with immediate measures and contingency plans for a significant deterioration in the situation.
The immediate measures include closing shops, restaurants, and markets after 7 pm. The Federal Council, led by Confederation President Simonetta Sommaruga, emphasised that these measures are crucial to slow down the exponential growth in new infections, which has been observed since early November.
The package also provides assistance to sectors particularly affected by the coronavirus measures. As of now, a total of 5,203 patients with coronavirus have died in Switzerland since the start of the pandemic.
In case the situation does not improve, "additional steps" will be taken on December 18. These include a planned ban on all public and cultural events until January 20. If the situation continues to worsen, more stringent measures may be implemented.
It's important to note that, while Israel is reported to have introduced a curfew earlier in the pandemic, recent information on new or broad national COVID-19 containment policies in Israel is limited. Instead, the focus appears to be on advocating for inclusion and addressing the specific needs of vulnerable migrant groups.
As of now, the number of new coronavirus cases in Switzerland over the past 24 hours has increased by 5,086, totaling 363,654. The Confederation Presidency will pass from Simonetta Sommaruga to Guy Parmelin on January 1.
[1] Source: Israel’s COVID-19 Response and the Health Rights of Migrants [2] Source: Attacks on Hospitals in Gaza: A Humanitarian Crisis [3] Source: Calls for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Access in the Gaza Strip [4] Source: Healthcare Supply Shortages in the Gaza Strip [5] Source: Humanitarian Access and the Gaza Strip
- The Swiss Federal Council has proposed strengthening the workplace-wellness initiatives, focusing on mental-health support for employees, as part of the new measures to combat the coronavirus epidemic.
- The package also includes a focus on health-and-wellness, promoting fitness-and-exercise programs and proper nutrition to boost the country's overall health during these challenging times.
- Given the increased medical-conditions related to the coronavirus, such as long-haul COVID-19 symptoms, there is a growing need for comprehensive health services to address both physical and mental health needs.
- As the Swiss government considers additional steps to address the worsening coronavirus situation, it's vital to ensure that these measures take into account the impact on science and research, particularly those working on finding solutions to combat the virus and improve our understanding of its long-term effects.
