[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] As the number of COVID-19 cases in Austria continues to hit record highs daily, the government has introduced strict measures restricting the movement of unvaccinated individuals.
According to the Associated Press on the 14th (local time), the Austrian government decided to restrict the movement of people aged 12 and over who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 starting from midnight on the 15th.
Violators will face fines of up to 1,450 euros (approximately 1.96 million KRW).
However, the government added that basic outings such as going to get vaccinated, commuting to work, grocery shopping, or taking walks will still be allowed.
The local APA news agency estimated that about 2 million people out of the total population of 9 million will be affected by this measure, which will be in effect for ten days.
Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg stated, "Protecting the people is the government's duty," and added, "Accordingly, there will be a lockdown for unvaccinated individuals starting Monday (the 15th)."
According to the real-time statistics site Worldometer, Austria surpassed 10,000 new cases for the first time on the 10th and has been recording record highs daily since then.
On the 13th, 13,152 new cases were reported.
However, Austria's COVID-19 vaccination rate is about 63%, which is lower than that of surrounding Western European countries.
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