The Czech government has extended a state of emergency until 23 December as the number of Covid-19 infections started to surge again.
The Czech Republic registered 6,402 new cases yesterday, the fastest growth since 19 November, taking the country's total tally since March to 563,333 cases and 9,226 deaths. "If the situation keeps worsening, we may have to tighten the measures again on Monday," Health Minister Jan Blatny told reporters.
The state of emergency makes decision-making easier for the government at the time of crisis. The government eased some restrictions a week ago when it reopened restaurants and bars, small shops, museums and galleries and raised the limit on gatherings.