The Romanian government will ease some COVID-19 restrictions from Wednesday, eliminating a night curfew and the obligation to wear face masks outdoors ahead of the winter holidays, officials said on Tuesday, according to Reuters.
Shops and restaurants can close at 10 p.m., one hour later than at present. Entry to most non-essential public venues will be allowed not only for those who have been vaccinated or who have recovered from the virus, but also for those who can present a negative COVID-19 test.
Wearing facemasks will continue to be mandatory in public transport and indoor public spaces, but will no longer be required outside except in crowded areas such as markets.
Romania remains the second-least vaccinated country in the EU, with just under 39% of the population inoculated amid distrust in state institutions, poor vaccine education and misinformation campaigns.
On Saturday, the country confirmed its first two cases of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.
The government tightened travel restrictions, requiring negative COVID-19 tests and quarantining unvaccinated travellers. Passenger locator forms will be introduced from December 20.