Portugal Cracks Down as COVID Cases Surge: New Rules from Sept 15
PM Costa Unveils Tough Social Distancing Measures
Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa announced strict new social distancing rules set to kick in on September 15. The move aims to keep schools safe and stop COVID-19 from spreading further as normal life resumes.
Speaking after a government meeting, Costa admitted cases are rising steadily. “This was predictable with schools reopening and activities resuming,” he said. The warning comes amid growing concern over fresh infection spikes.
New Limits on Gatherings and Business Hours
- Gatherings across Portugal will be capped at 10 people.
- In restaurants and cafes, groups are limited to a maximum of four to avoid crowding.
- Shops and businesses must open no earlier than 10 a.m.
- Mayors can set closing times between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m.
Alcohol Sales and Public Drinking Face Crackdown
- Alcohol sales at petrol stations banned after 8 p.m.
- Only restaurants serving meals can sell alcohol post-8 p.m.
- Drinking alcohol in public spaces is now forbidden nationwide.
School Safety and Sporting Event Ban
Costa stressed that all schools will receive personal protective equipment to ensure safety. Gatherings of more than four people will be banned within 300 metres of any school to limit risks.
Fans won’t be allowed at sporting events throughout September, keeping stadiums empty for now.
“It is absolutely crucial to keep the pandemic in check… It depends fundamentally on each citizen to keep the pandemic under control and thereby to enable the country’s economic and social recovery,” Costa said.
Latest COVID Stats in Portugal
Portugal reported three new deaths and 585 infections in the last 24 hours. The death toll now stands at 1,852, with a total of 62,126 confirmed COVID-19 cases.
