More European nations clutch at “second lockdown” straws as coronavirus cases top 10 million

To rein in the unrelenting spread of the coronavirus, a growing number of European nations have chosen to swallow a bitter pill — a second lockdown long seen as a last resort.

Taking cues from its neighbors France and Germany, Belgium became the latest nation re-imposing a second lockdown. The country’s COVID-19 incidence, currently at more than 1,600 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, dwarfs all of its European peers.

Since Thursday midnight, France has been under a nationwide lockdown, and Germany will go into a partial one starting Monday.

The lockdowns came as Europe passed the grim 10 million infections mark, fueled by recurring daily records

STRICTER LOCKDOWN RULES IN BELGIUM

Belgium will move to stricter lockdown, with rules valid throughout the country to fight against COVID-19, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo announced Friday.

According to the rules, all non-essential businesses will have to close, while food stores and supermarkets will remain open.

Tele-working becomes mandatory wherever possible. Belgian borders remain open but travel abroad is strongly discouraged.

In the social bubble, only one contact is allowed. In other words, only one person can be invited at home, and that person will be close contact.

The “rule of four” remains applicable outside. One can meet four people outside, go for a walk or other activity together, but should practice social distancing and wear a mask.

These measures will be in force throughout the country from Nov. 2 to Dec. 13.

The nationwide lockdown came on the heels of the one in France starting Thursday midnight. People in France now can go out only for work, health emergency, essential family needs or short exercise near home. Non-essential shops, including bars, cafes, gyms and restaurants, are closed.

The French government expects that the one-month lockdown would help cut the daily number of COVID-19 infections to 5,000, but experts believed that new restrictions need more time to bear fruit.

Germany announced earlier this week a partial lockdown starting Nov. 2. Entertainment and leisure activities will be largely prohibited throughout Germany as bars, restaurants, theaters, operas and concert venues will have to close until the end of November.