The Greek government announced on Thursday that the lockdown imposed to limit the spread of the coronavirus will be extended at least until December 14.
Government spokesman Stelios Petsas said that the rate of decrease in Covid-19 cases throughout the country is slower than expected and the pressure on the public health system in Thessaloniki and in Northern Greece remains intense.
For this reason, he said, the restrictive measures are to be extended until 6 AM on Monday, December 14th.
A record-breaking 613 Covid-19 patients were intubated in Greece on Wednesday, as intensive care units around the country find themselves operating at near capacity. A total of 2,186 new coronavirus cases were diagnosed in Greece over the last 24 hour period, and 89 people with the virus passed away.
Vaccination
Petsas added that coronavirus vaccinations will be voluntary and free of charge, and announced that 1,018 vaccination centers will be created throughout Greece, in order to vaccinate 2,117,440 citizens per month.
The first to receive the vaccine will be health workers, followed by vulnerable groups over the age of 65, as well as those with underlying diseases.
Earlier, the Ministry of Development and Investment had announced that beginning on Monday, December 7, the operation of retail businesses of purely seasonal Christmas items will be allowed.