European Countries Reimpose Restrictions on Omicron... Germany Bans Entry from the UK

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporters Kwon Jae-hee and Cho Hyun-ui] As the spread of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron intensifies, European countries are once again locking down. Especially as the Omicron spread in the United Kingdom grows severe, neighboring countries are imposing strengthened measures on travelers arriving from the UK.

On the 20th (local time), the German government announced that from midnight, passenger transport from the UK to Germany via train, bus, ship, or passenger plane will be completely banned. This measure follows the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) designating the UK and its territories as variant virus areas the previous day. Only German nationals, residents, and transit passengers arriving from the UK are allowed entry.

Neighboring Austria also announced that from this day forward, only vaccinated travelers will be permitted entry. The Netherlands decided to close all bars, non-essential shops, cinemas, and gyms at least until January 14 next year.

Italy banned indoor gatherings in regions including Naples. Spain and Portugal, which have the highest vaccination rates in Europe, have warned they may strengthen restrictions due to the Omicron spread. France has banned entry of tourists and business travelers from the UK starting from the 18th, except for French nationals, residents, and those with essential reasons.

As the Omicron spread intensifies, the initial optimism that COVID-19 would end early has sharply reversed.

Anthony Fauci, director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), appeared on CNN and NBC on the 19th (local time) and stated, "With Omicron spreading fiercely worldwide, we are facing a difficult winter."

He added, "What is clear about Omicron is its remarkable spreading ability and infectiousness, and there is no doubt about this."

AP News evaluated Fauci’s outlook as a sharp reversal from the optimism expressed by President Joe Biden after his inauguration. President Biden is scheduled to deliver a national address on the 21st regarding the winter surge of COVID-19 and concerns about Omicron’s spread.