The constant increase in infections from Covid-19 has prompted the government to intervene by preparing new restrictions and maxi-fines for those who violate the rules. From the Minister of Health, Roberto Speranza, to the Prime Minister, Giuseppe Conte, the current orientation of the Government seems to be unambiguous: to institute new restrictions in order to prevent Italy from soon finding itself in the same conditions as France, Spain and the United Kingdom , where the increase in infections in recent weeks has exceeded the alert threshold and where individual governments have established restrictions and closures in order to put a stop to what is now effectively defined as the "second wave".
The new rules were discussed in the context of a summit between the heads of delegation held on Sunday 4 October at Palazzo Chigi and should be adopted in the context of a new Dpcm arriving on Wednesday. Within the same measure there will also be room for the extension of the state of emergency as of January 31, 2021.
So let's see what measures are coming in an attempt to counter the increase in infections.
OUTDOOR MASKS THROUGHOUT ITALY
It is now practically a certainty, even if we will have to wait for a parliamentary vote. From Thursday 8 October throughout Italy it will be mandatory to wear a mask even outdoors. Those who violate the rules will face a fine of between 400 and 3.000 euros.
The Government's measure follows the ordinances already issued by various Regions (Lazio, Campania, Basilicata, Calabria and Sicily) which over the last few weeks have gone ahead on their own especially to avoid contact between children when they leave school and in the evening in nightlife venues.
It should also be taken into consideration that the Scientific Technical Committee (Cts) has summoned the emergency commissioner, Domenico Arcuri, to take stock of possible lack of masks and other safety devices, especially in hospitals, and avoid being found again unprepared for a further increase in cases.
EARLY CLOSURES OF THE PREMISES
The early closure of clubs and restaurants at 22 or 23 pm, as already established in other countries including France and the United Kingdom, seems to be excluded. The measure has already caused huge controversy, with insiders fearing the economic impact of further restrictions. In fact, we recall that the sector is one of the most affected by the crisis triggered by the coronavirus emergency and new restrictions could have a devastating impact on turnover already in the red. The Government could therefore decide for a "middle ground", banning the take-away of alcohol outside after 22pm.
Also in this case, an assessment by the CTS is awaited, which in any case has already recommended stringent checks by the police in the nightlife areas.
EVENTS AND WEDDINGS
Another hypothesis on the table is to impose a limit on the number of participants in private parties and events and a limited number for baptisms and weddings. To date, the threshold is 200 participants indoors and 1.000 outdoors. The aim is to counter the spread of the virus, taking into account the fact that, according to the latest data, the infections are spreading above all within the same family unit and in meetings between friends and relatives.
TIGHTEN ON CONTROLS
While discussions continue on the new incoming restrictions, the Ministry of the Interior is moving on another front: that relating to the tightening of controls. As mentioned, the fines for those who do not respect the rules will be very high, but the checks also need to be massive and constant again. The head of the cabinet of the Ministry of the Interior, Bruno Frattasi, sent a circular to the prefects, inviting them to adopt all the initiatives within their competence to limit the risk of contagion.
The circular confirms "the commitment of the police forces to ensure compliance with the anti-Covid provisions through the general prevention services that characterize the territorial control activities, as well as the possibility of targeted checks in relation to urban places and times of greatest crowding".
The control activities "may be modulated in relation to specific territorial quadrants and certain time slots, in which the risk of gatherings is greater, with the usual contribution of local police operators and with the possible help of military personnel belonging to the device" Strade Sicure', within the framework of the pertinent Employment Plan'”.
Finally, the circular provides that in addition to the police forces, the military of the "Safe Roads" operation will also be able to carry out the checks.
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