COVID-19 pandemic in Ams

The **COVID-19 pandemic in Ams** is part of the worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The virus reached the country in late February 2020. As of 11 January 2021 there have been 759,848 confirmed cases and 6,061 deaths related to coronavirus.

The Department of Health launched an informative campaign in early March on preventing the spread of coronavirus, urging the public to take precautions such as hand washing and maintaining essential travel only. A stay at home order was imposed on Thursday 18 March, broadcasted as 'Stay Home, Limit the Spread.' The order banned all non essential travel and banned contact outside of the household. Schools (except for childcare and children of essential workers), non essential businesses, venues, facilities and amenities were ordered to close from Monday 22 March. Places of worship were only allowed to open for day-specific worship (Sunday for churches). Those with symptoms were advised to isolate for a period of 7 days, and anyone in their household was advised to isolate for 10 days. People were advised to remain 2m apart from each other in public. On March 27, the country's borders were closed (except Eastown), temperature checks were utilised on entry, and non essential travel was banned.

## **Timeline**

### **February 2020: early spread and first confirmed cases**

* On 20 February, the first positive case was confirmed in Ams. The subject, a Chinese tourist had became unwell whilst visiting the Central Shopping Centre in Venica, with fatigue and respiratory difficulties. He was brought to the Infectious Control Centre in Venica, and his coronavirus diagnosis was made overnight. Authorities worked to trace all contacts of the tourist. All seven additional cases up to 26 February were confirmed to be in contact with the Chinese tourist, they were told to isolate for 10 days. Officials in Venica offered local guidance, supported by the government, for people to isolate for 7 days if they have symptoms of coronavirus.

### **March 2020: closures and restrictions**

* On 3 March, a further 11 positive cases were identified, this signified the beginning of a significant rise in cases, 9 of the cases were in Venica, and the other 2 cases were reported in Southbeach.
* On 4 March, health officials launched a Department of Health campaign to inform the public about coronavirus, the public was urged to take precautions such as hand washing and maintaining essential travel only. The campaign was launched on television, radio and in public communes, with the slogan, "Stay Informed. Stay Safe and Stop the Spread of Coronavirus."
* On 14 March, there was 513 positive cases in total, and the first deaths were reported, a man in his 90s in Venica, and a woman in her 80s in Ams City. The government urged anybody with symptoms to isolate for at least 7 days, and anyone else in their household to isolate for 10 days.
* On 16 March, the government advised people to keep distance from others when possible and take note of advice to wash hands and maintain essential travel. All care home visits were halted.
* On 18 March, a stay at order was issued to mitigate the spread of the virus. All non essential businesses, amenities and venues were ordered to close by 22 March, although places of worship were allowed to open at their discretion of days of worship only. Those with symptoms were told to isolate for 7 days, and anyone in their household was told to isolate for 10 days. Foreign visitors were told to urgently make plans to return home as Ams' borders were due to close. The April election was postponed.
* The government directed people to only travel for essential work, essential shopping and medical requirements. People were allowed to leave their house for exercise alone or with other members of their household. Public gatherings, except funerals, were prohibited. The House scaled back their activites to weekly.
* On 31 March, 1243 positive cases were reported, this was thought to be the peak of the pandemic, however deaths didn't peak for another week.

### **April 2020**

* On 1 April, the governement advised members of the public to avoid purchasing personal protective equipment such a masks to avoid a shortage for healthcare workers and facilities.
* On 4 April, hangars at Ams City Intl, Venica Intl and Heartstown Intl were made available immediately to be used as makeshift casualty centres in case of a significant death toll.
* On 10 April, Ams recorded 116 deaths, the highest daily total of the pandemic. It was announced that lockdown measures and stay at home orders would remain in place for another 3 weeks before a review at the end of the month. A relief motion was passed to cut business rates to 0% for 4 weeks, and give businesses a rebate for 3 weeks prior. Paid sick leave became tax deductible for those self isolating, and social housing rent for those self isolating would be cut by 80% for a 2 week period.
* On 12 April, health officials announced that 'we're exiting the peak', but advised restrictions would stay in place until at least the end of the month.
* On 14 April, the death toll stood at 1491.
* On 15 April, the government said they would provide an ultimatum to hospitals and care centres to provide 40,000 packages of personal protective equipment.
* On 22 April, it was announced that hospital capacity would be slightly reduced, and non essential treatments and operations would continue effective immediately. The government apologised for the backlog.
* On 24 April, President Robinson announced that lockdown measures would be eased from 27 April. Those working from home were asked to go to work, leisure travel to parks and beaches was encouraged, and hospitality businesses were advised to reopen for takeaway services and outdoor dining at their own discretion. Outdoor markets were permitted to restart trading. DIY and garden stores were allowed to reopen. People were allowed to exercise with a maximum of 3 people from other households. Social distancing measures remained in force and the elderly and vulnerable were advised to stay indoors when possible. The government informative slogan was changed to, 'Stay Informed. Limit the Spread.'
* On 27 April, beaches were opened to the public for the first time in a month. Thousands flocked to beaches across the country, and concerns about social distancing were raised. The government urged people to be sensible and take personal precautions in regards to the easing of restrictions.
* On 28 April, the government said it does not plan to mandate face coverings, but advised vulnerable people to wear them on enclosed public transportation if necessary.
* On 29 April, international travel restrictions remained, now all travellers (apart from those from Eastown) will be asked to go into a 7 day quarantine. Non-contact care home visits resumed.
* A total of 2520 deaths were recorded up to 30 April.

### **May 2020**

* On 1 May, it was announced that people could meet friends and family outside in groups of no more than 4, or 8 people from 2 households.
* On 2 May, the government announced that people could now visit inside other households in groups of no more than 4, or 8 people from 2 households.
* On 7 May, the government said that people should take advantage of the warm, spring weather and 'go outdoors.' The government told people to visit takeaway facilities and beaches, whilst taking a personal account of precautions. The government said people can exercise with an unlimited number of others.
* On 8 May, the hangars at Ams City Intl, Heartstown Intl and Venica Intl that were used as makeshift casualty centres were stood down. Health officials stated that the Venica Intl makeshift centre was the only centre used and only reached 3% capacity on 16 April.
* On 9 May, public dental health facilities restarted normal operations and procedures.
* On 11 May, the government said all new travellers who arrive in Ams (apart from Eastown), will be asked to quarantine for 10 days.
* On 15 May, outdoor leisure facilities such as swimming pools and sports courts reopened. Non essential retail shops were also permitted to reopen. The Amsish Football League restarted training. Parks and playgrounds that were closed at local authority discretion reopened. The government also announced that people could meet friends and family in a group of up to 15 in public spaces. They also announced that people could now visit inside other households in groups of up to 8 people from different households. Care home visits could resume with 2m distancing advised indoors, and 1m advised outdoors.
* On 18 May, the government announced that the 2m social distancing guideline will be reduced to 1m effective immediately, to allow for the reopening of indoor hospitality venues. The 2m social distancing guideline will remain in care home settings.
* On 20 May, the government announced that from 25 May, schools and colleges would reopen for pupils taking public examinations. Other pupils would be provided with support packs. Exam boards were advised that due to the stress and lack of teaching as a result of the pandemic, grading would be generous and thought out. Teacher input was also taken on board. Examinations would take place between 2 June and 12 June.
* On 23 May, it is announced that bars, restaurants and cafes, gyms and indoor sports venues will reopen from 1 June.
* On 27 May, the total number of deaths stood at 3,221.

### **June 2020**

* On 1 June, bars, restaurants, cafes, gyms and indoor sports venues reopened. The government thanked the public for its co-operation in limiting the spread of coronavirus. A tax relief package for all businesses was announced. The government said that economic stimulus in the form of a tax rebate of 15% would take effect for every citizen in the months of June and July.
* It was reported that unemployment reached 5.8% in May, up from 4.9% in April.
* On 2 June, the governement announced that 1m social distancing would become advisory for most sectors and public areas.
* On 5 June, the government said it is cutting quarantine to arrivals from abroad to 7 days.
* On 6 June, the government said friends and families can meet in groups of up to 60 outdoors, or up to 30 indoors. Government contractor Prepco launched their contact tracing system, Track and Protect - which will provide contact tracing to pubs, restaurants, bars, theatres, stadia and nightclubs. Whilst giving the system contact details is optional, all businesses will have a legal requirement to offer usage of the system from 15 June.
* The opposition criticised the President for lifting lockdown measures, saying 'it is too early.' The government was also pressured to mandate face coverings on public transport.
* On 10 June, the government said advise for vulnerable and elderly people to stay at home has ended. Face coverings recommended in care homes where this prolonged contact with a distance of less than 2m.
* On 13 June, the government increased the limit of indoor gatherings in private settings to 50.
* On 15 June, the government announced a scheme that would encourage businesses to create 100,000 extra jobs for the economy. Cinemas, hairdressers, barbers and beauty salons were allowed to reopen. Theatres were also allowed to reopen for live performances, with 30% capacity or a maximum of 500 spectators, whatever is less.
* On 18 June, the government said quarantine-free international travel is now permitted.
* On 28 June, the government advised face coverings in enclosed settings for vulnerable people, but it will not be mandated.

### **July 2020**

* On 1 July, casinos, amusement parks and bowling alleys were allowed to reopen. The government said enclosed sports stadia could reopen from 4 July with 1,500 spectators or 20% capacity, whatever is less, with 1m distancing recommended. Open-air stadia was allowed to reopen with 2,500 spectators or 25% capacity, whatever is less, with 1m distancing recommended.
* On 4 July, it was reported that unemployment in June fell to 5.4% from 5.8% in May.
* On 8 July, President Robinson says he wants to 'stimulate the economy.' He announced an extension of the tax rebate scheme for all citizens into August, however the rebate will be lowered to 10%. Businesses will receive a 5% tax rebate in July and August.
* On 10 July, the government said it had been working with nightclubs with regards to a reopening plan.
* Ams recorded 0 coronavirus deaths on 9 July.
* On 13 July, Ams' major rail and bus firms agreed to cut ticket prices by 25% to stimulate the economy,
* On 21 July, the President said the 'pandemic is well and truly over.' Opposition members criticsed the President and warned of an impending second wave.
* On 24 July, nightclubs were permitted to reopen with a reduced capacity of 20% with a maximum of 75 people.

### **August 2020**

* On 1 August, capacity restrictions on theatres were increased to 750, or 35%, whatever is less. The government said nightclubs may operate at 25% capacity with a maximum of 100 people from 7 August, although enforcement actions were not being taken against any nightclubs ignoring the guidance.
* On 4 August, it was reported that unemployment fell to 5.1% in July, compared to 5.4% in June.
* On 6 August, health officials said a coronavirus vaccine will 'probably not' be funded publicly unless there is demand.
* On 8 August, President Robinson defended his inaction of a vaccine, saying "We've reached a sense of immunity, I think a vaccine should be available but we won't be encouraging it, and we won't be not encouraging it."
* On 10 August, students recieved their examination results. Overall, the proportion of students with A grades rose from 24.3% to 29.4%. Examination boards were encouraged to give leeway and took advice from teachers and individual schools.
* On 14 August, the government said all schools and colleges will open as normal. Face coverings will not be mandated, and 1m distancing will remain advisory. Schools will be able to give leeway in regarubdds to online learning but must ensure '90%+ of pupils' are in class and learning at any one time.
* On 21 August, it was announced that teachers unions plan to strike if adequate PPE is not provided to staff. The government dismissed this as an empty threat. The government said 100 people can now gather in outdoor settings.
* On 22 August, the government said similar guidance from flu and cold season will be issued to schools, with a campaign to encourage pupils to wash hands and cover coughs and sneezes being launched in schools. This will overlap regular flu season information that usually begins in October in educational settings.
* On 25 August, the Track and Protect contact tracing system was extended as an optional provision for supermarkets and retail stores.
* On 28 August, the total number of cases reached 58,637, and the death toll reached 3,622.
* On 31 August, pupils across the country returned to the classroom.

### **September 2020**

* On 3 September, the Governor ordered all schools to ensure 100% of pupils get back to school by 11 September, with 'online learning' not being recommended.
* On 8 September, the government said 70 people can now gather in private indoor settings.
* On 11 September, opposition leaders criticised the government for ignoring an 'impending second wave of coronavirus.' The President said that the country will not lockdown again.
* On 13 September, the Government issued a publication advising people to enjoy the warm weather 'over the next few days' to support 'immunity' and Vitamin D levels.
* On 15 September, 336 cases of coronavirus were recorded. The government said nightclubs would continue to operate at 25% capacity, however ministers were working with the sector to find ways of creating an equal balance across all leisure sectors.
* On 16 September, the Government said anyone with symptoms should still self isolate for 10 days; but this would not be legally enforced.
* On 18 September, the Government said it would not be introducing any lockdown measures in spite of rising coronavirus cases.
* On 20 September, 439 cases of coronavirus were recorded, the highest number since 18 May.
* On 21 September, the Government said the vulnerable and elderly in society should take additional precautions as they will be adversely affected by respiratory illnesses in the upcoming months.
* On 23 September, Business Minister Michael Grove said it is 'vital' that the country continues to get out and spend in a bid to help the economy. Grove also said 'great immunity' is the only way out of the current situation.
* On 24 September, care homes advised to offer visits in outdoor settings wherever possible, or indoor with increased ventilation and face coverings recommended.
* On 26 September, the Government said it is important that the vulnerable and elderly were to take extra precautions over the next few weeks but must not completely isolate from society.
* On 29 September, 657 cases of coronavirus were recorded.

### **October 2020**

* On 1 October, 130 cases of coronavirus were recorded in the Venica metropolitan area, over 20% of total cases nationwide. Council leaders were said to be drawing up plans for potential local restrictions.
* On 5 October, Venica Mayor Sally Sherman said that a maximum of 30 people should gather in private indoor settings from Wednesday, and face coverings would be recommended on public transport, small stores and in communal areas in educational facilities. Care homes in the city were ordered to enforce 2m distancing with face coverings indoors where possible.
* On 6 October, President Robinson said he wasn't fully aware of local measures in Venica before they were announced, and reiterated that tough national restrictions would not be enforced under any circumstance.
* On 7 October, Ams City officials said that the Timeson Junction New Year's fireworks event would still go ahead.
* On 8 October, government ministers rejected suggestions by Venica Mayor Sally Sherman that face coverings should be legally enforced on public transport and in supermarkets, and clarifies that the 30 people gathering limit isn't legally enforceable, despite local police breaking up groups of more than 30. Over 200 cases of coronavirus were recorded in the city.
* On 9 October, it was reported that unemployment fell to 4.7% in September.
* On 11 October, Ams recorded 1,000 coronavirus cases for the first time since 2nd April.
* On 13 October, the government announced that the planned rise in minimum wage would be delayed.
* On 16 October, the Mayor of Venice Sally Sherman said that everybody in the city should wear face coverings indoors and outdoors, although this is voluntary.
* On 17 October, it was announced that cares home and nursing homes would close to indoor visits from 22 October until 5 November to curb the potential transmission of coronavirus in the care home community. The government said outdoor visits would continue if possible, if this is not possible, care homes should create provisions for visits via windows or doorways.
* On 20 October, the Opposition said the Government's new restrictions are just to 'pretend something is being done', and asks the Government to consider a 14 day shutdown and public mask mandate.
* On 21 October, the Government said it is launching a voluntary shielding initiative for those aged over 70. The new program, set to launch on 26 October will offer financial initiatives to businesses with employees over 70 who choose to shield therefore they cannot work, such as providing 80% of weekly salary. It also encourages those over 70 to limit social contact as much as possible to pause a resurgence in the virus in older age groups.
* On 22 October, President Robinson clarified to the House that there'd be no national lockdown under any circumstances, and face coverings would not be mandated. The President said the government's top priorities are protecting the vulnerable and the economy at the same time.
* On 25 October, Venica recorded 536 cases of coronavirus, but positivity rate is declining. Heartstown recorded 506, forcing local leaders to begin considering local restrictions.
* On 26 October, the Government launched the 'Economic Protection Package', offering incentives to those over 70 or the clinically vulnerable to shield as much as possible, in an aim to avoid harsh restrictions on the populace as a whole. Those over 70 who choose to shield must register, and will in turn be offered 80% of weekly salary by the government if they are still in work. The new scheme would last until February 1.
* On 31 October, the Government said children should be encouraged to enjoy Halloween, but private gatherings of more than 30 were discouraged.

### **November 2020**

* On 9 November, the Government said restrictions on nightclub capacity would be eased 'greatly' over the Christmas and New Year period. Public daily testing capacity reached 150,000.
* On 11 November, the Government said it would not be forcefully promoting any pharmaceutical vaccine now or in the near future - "The Government still believes that immunity in the younger generations, and encouraging the more vulnerable to take their own precautions is a popular grasp of public opinion, and we will not be mandating or promoting a vaccine for the wider population."
* On 13 November, it was announced that 60,000 tickets would be available for the Ams City NYE fireworks event in Timeson Junction, instead of the usual 100,000. The smaller event on Algonquin Bridge that usually accomodates 10,000 spectators will not go ahead. The Dorlan Beach event will go ahead with 20,000 spectators instead of the usual 60,000.
* On 20 November, new guidance came into place in Heartstown due to a rise in local coronavirus cases. Face coverings were advised on public transport and in indoor spaces. Mayor Nathan Hartman said a maximum of 10 people from 3 households should gather indoors, and city police were given the powers for enforcement action.
* On 21 November, Heartstown city representatives said it would be issuing a curfew closure of pubs, nightclubs, restaurants and bars at 10pm, effective from 23 November.
* On 22 November, the Associate Medical Board said that "coronavirus is spiralling out of control" and said that there could be 10,000 total deaths by April with possible third and fourth waves.
* On 23 November, Heartstown's curfew came into force, with pubs, nightclubs, restaurants and bars forced to shut at 10pm. These restrictions will be reviewed on 1 December.
	+ Medcent announces that it has secured 1,000,000 doses of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine. It is currently in talks with Pfizer to deliver 4,000,000 doses by March, and Moderna to deliver 1,000,000 doses by March if approved by regulators.
* On 24 November, members of the National Teacher’s Union went forward with strike action, forcing 300 schools and colleges to close, and 500 more to run a reduced timetable. The union said that the government is not doing enough to protect pupils and staff. Opposition MoHs lobbied the government to introduce reasonable restrictions, including shuttering nightclubs, pubs, theatres, cinemas, stadia, restaurants and bars for 2 weeks. Opposition members also said that a lockdown now would 'save Christmas.'
* On 25 November, Vice President Harry Montelone said that those with symptoms of coronavirus should wear a mask when in public spaces, but reiterated that there'll be no legal enforcement. Face coverings were recommended for all commuters for the first time, “Face coverings or masks are recommended on enclosed public transportation where a social distance of 1m is not possible. This can include the rush hour periods, or dependent on local passenger flow. Face coverings or masks will remain personal choice.”
* On 26 November, Medcent said that it had secured 500,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine for critical care and key workers, enough for 250,000 workers, set to arrive by 27 December.
* On 27 November, it was announced that the National Teacher’s Union strike would end on Monday 30 November, providing that schools are allowed to close for Christmas break a week early.
* On 28 November, Department of Education officials said that schools would close as planned for Christmas break, but they would negotiate with the teacher’s unions to prevent any further strike action.
* On 30 November, police forces were given the power to issue fines of up to €500 to those who break social gathering limits, however fines would only be issued if a dispersal order is repeatedly ignored.

### **December 2020**

* On 1 December, Heartstown Mayor Nathan Hartman said that local restrictions would last until 7 December. Cases remained higher than the day restrictions were enforced.
* On 5 December, the Government said that those with symptoms of coronavirus, or those with a close contact who tested positive should continue to stay at home, and only leave home if absolutely necessary. “If you must leave your home, you should wear a face covering and avoid public transport.” - stated Vice President Montelone on ANR 2 Breakfast.
* On 7 December, lockdown restrictions were eased in Heartstown.
* On 14 December, the Government said nightclubs would be permitted to open every day between 31 December and 2 January, with a limit of 100 people. Outside of this relaxation, nightclubs are only permitted to open Friday and Saturday, and have to close before 3am Sunday. Theatres and stadia remain at regular capacity. Police forces were given further powers to break up those who breach gathering restrictions, with a fine of up to €500 for those who host illegal gatherings and refuse to disperse, and up to €100 for those who participate and refuse to disperse.
* On 15 December, Freedom Party opposition members said that restrictions should not be relaxed for the festive period, and a lockdown should be considered after Christmas. Government minister Ryan Seaclarke said “Famlies are going to mix over the festive holiday, regardless of restrictions. We are asking people to be cautious and continue to limit social contacts, but we will not be Scrooge to the people, that would be a disgrace, especially now that families across the country have already made plans to see family and spent money on gifts and travel.”
* On 20 December, the Government said that the limit on private gatherings would rise from 15 to 30 temporarily, between 24 December and 26 December, and once again on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
* On 21 December, the Pfizer vaccine was approved by regulators, and Medcent would begin vaccinations from 23 December. Medcent had received 500,000 doses of the vaccine.
* On 23 December, vaccinations against coronavirus began with those over 70, care home residents of all ages and those over 60 designated as clinically vulnerable are prioritised for the vaccine. Vaccinations will be offered to everybody over 60 via an invitation, other age groups will be expected to manually book a vaccination.
* On 28 December, the Government said that universities and colleges would operate distant learning, instead of returning on 4 January, until 13 January . Primary and secondary schools would return as normal.
* On 30 December, 27,342 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus, with the Pfizer vaccine. Official figures show that 24,348 doses of the vaccine had been distributed to those over 70, and the rest to healthcare workers.

### **January 2021**

* On 2 January, temporary relaxations of certain restrictions were ended.
* On 3 January, the Associate Medical Board stated that additional precautions may be needed over the course of January as the country would see a ‘festive wave’ of coronavirus. Medcent announced that 79,485 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus, with the Pfizer vaccine. Pfizer had agreed to deliver an additional 1,500,000 doses of the vaccine by 9 January.
* On 4 January, the Government announced changes in coronavirus guidance in response to a surge in coronavirus cases. As previously confirmed, colleges and universities would have to provide distant learning until 13 January. The limit on private indoor gatherings was reduced to 8, and the limit on outdoor gatherings was reduced to 15. Non-essential travel is advised against, and those who can work from home should do so. Non-essential retail stores remained open in line with national restrictions. All hospitality businesses remained open.
* On 9 January, 1,000,000 additional doses of the Pfizer vaccine arrived, Medcent said. Regulators approved the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine for use with 500,000 doses arriving on 11 January. Medcent officials said that the 2nd dose of each vaccine would be offered 6 to 12 weeks after the first dose has been received.
* On 11 January, vaccinations using the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine began.
* On 13 January, Medcent said that 149,917 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 72,802 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, 57,832 under the age of 70 had been vaccinated, and 19,283 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.
* On 14 January, officials say low prevalence of the South African coronavirus variant has been detected in Venica.
* On 15 January, the Education Secretary confirmed that all education facilities would remain open with in-person classes despite continued opposition from teaching unions.
* On 16 January, it was announced that Ams had secured 2,000,000 additional doses of the Pfizer vaccine.
* On 17 January, the President said that he was happy with the reduction in infections and deaths, and confirmed that the more stringent guidelines would come to an end on 29 January.
* On 18 January, Ams recorded 108 deaths attributed to coronavirus.
* On 20 January, Medcent said that 288,495 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 162,483 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, 81,384 under the age of 70 had been vaccinated, and 44,628 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.
* On 21 January, the National Teacher’s Union cancelled a proposed strike between 25 January and 28 January after the Government said any teachers that participate would risk being suspended without pay. Freedom Party Deputy Leader Lisa Brown said "This is blatant overeach by the government, aimed at our teachers who just want to work in a safe environment, especially with the virus running rampant."
* On 22 January, the Government said that the vaccine would not be required in any form of life, amid speculation surrounding possible health passports. The President said that he doesn't plan to take the vaccine.
* On 23 January, Opposition member Jack Kawisk said that vaccine passports will be the simple solution to quarantining and testing for international travellers, and urged the government to introduce a way of proving vaccination status.
* On 27 January, Medcent said that 389,384 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 227,384 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, 102,483 under the age of 70 had been vaccinated, and 59,517 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine
* On 29 January, the limit on private indoor gatherings rose to 15, and the limit on outdoor gatherings rose to 30.

### **February 2021**

* On 3 February, the Government said that people should 'Stay Responsible', and said that social restrictions will be progressively phased out over the next 12 weeks.
* On 4 February, Medcent said that 488,110 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 298,563 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, this is approximately 18% of over 70s, and 117,965 people under the age of 70 had been vaccinated. A total of 71,582 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.
* On 7 February, Medcent said that it is 'guaranteed' that everybody who receives their first dose of the coronavirus vaccine will receive their second shot within three to five weeks afterwards.
* On 11 February, Medcent said that 597,270 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 386,852 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, this is approximately 24% of over 70s, and 129,852 people under the age of 70 had been vaccinated. A total of 80,566 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.
* On 18 February, Medcent said that 746,041 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 497,426 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, this is approximately 31% of over 70s, and 142,863 people under the age of 70 had been vaccinated. A total of 105,752 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.
* On 19 February, the Health Secretary said that it’s inevitable that some countries would require proof of vaccination upon entry, however a vaccine will not be required for travel within or to Ams.
* On 20 February, Ams recorded 2625 cases of coronavirus, the lowest since 24 October.
* On 21 February, it was announced that the the next phase of the delivery of coronavirus vaccines will begin, with those over 60 regardless of clinical status prioritised. Vaccinations for people between 50-59 who are designated as clinically vulnerable will also begin.
* On 22 February, Ams recorded 2359 cases of coronavirus.
* On 23 February, Government officials stated that vaccine uptake will not impact the lifting of restrictions, and “social restrictions will be gradually phased out over the next few weeks.”
* On 25 February, Medcent said that 944,945 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 617,856 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, this is approximately 38% of over 70s, and 198,523 people under the age of 70 had been vaccinated. A total of 128,566 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.

### **March 2021**

* On 4 March, Medcent said that 1,308,282 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 798,552 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, this is approximately 49% of over 70s, and 367,855 people under the age of 70 had been vaccinated. A total of 141,875 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.
* On 11 March, Medcent said that 1,681,600 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 974,158 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, this is approximately 60% of over 70s, and 551,287 people under the age of 70 had been vaccinated. A total of 156,155 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.
* On 18 March, Medcent said that 1,968,338 people had been vaccinated against coronavirus. Official figures showed that 1,102,255 people over the age of 70 had been vaccinated, this is approximately 68% of over 70s, and 698,557 people under the age of 70 had been vaccinated. A total of 167,526 healthcare workers in all age groups received the vaccine.
* On 20 March, it was announced that vaccinations would begin for those between 50-59 regardless of clinical status, and for those between 18-49 who are desginated as clinically vulnerable.

### **April 2021**

* On 26 April, the Government enacted its 'Moving Forward' plan and dropped all COVID-19 restrictions. All guidance on social distancing was dropped. All indoor and outdoor venues were permitted to open at full capacity, and nightclubs were permitted to open 7 days a week. A negative test or quarantine is no longer required for travellers from EU countries, Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, Mexico and Canada. Quarantine rules for other countries would be phased out over the coming weeks.

### **June 2021**

* On 15 June, quarantine rules were relaxed for all international travellers, a negative test or proof of vaccination will not be required; however, travellers from countries on the designated hotspot list would be asked to sign a health declaration form upon arrival. From 1 August, public free COVID-19 testing for mild symptoms would end. Testing will still be available for healthcare workers, people with severe respiratory symptoms, people who's physician recommends a test and through some health insurance plans.