Austria has imposed a national lockdown on about two million people who have not been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
The move comes as the country faces a surge in cases. Austria’s seven-day infection rate is more than 800 cases per 100,000 people, which is one of the highest in Europe, according to a BBC report. About 65% of Austria’s population is fully vaccinated – one of the lowest rates in Western Europe.
Unvaccinated people will only be permitted to leave home for limited reasons, like working or buying food.
Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg said: ‘We are not taking this step lightly, but unfortunately it is necessary.’
The measures introduced in Austria on Monday, which come amid growing pressure on the nation’s hospitals, will initially last for 10 days.
Children under the age of 12 and people who have recently recovered from the virus will be exempt.
There was a last-minute rush at vaccination centres in Upper Austria on the eve of the new restrictions.
Critics have questioned whether the move is constitutional. The far-right Freedom Party has said it will create a group of second-class citizens.
The BBC notes that the UK, which has one of the highest Covid infection rates, has yet to reintroduce restrictions, despite health leaders calling for rules like mandatory face coverings in crowded and enclosed spaces to be brought back to avoid a winter crisis.