At the coronavirus press conference of April 21, Prime Minister Rutte announced that primary schools are to reopen in May. Other coronavirus measures were also discussed, as well as a new extension date of said measures.

Update coronavirus measures

At the press conference, Prime Minister Rutte announced the following:

1. Schools

Primary schools are to reopen from May 11, as well as special needs education and day care. Primary school students will most likely rotate attendance. Teachers and students who are experiencing symptoms of the virus should stay home. Teachers will also have the right to be tested for the virus.

2. Sports

Children up until the age of 12 can play team sports again from April 28. No official competitions, no parents watching on the sidelines. Municipalities will look at the available options with local sports clubs. Children between the ages of 12 and 18 will also be able to participate in sports more, however, here the 1.5-metre distance rule will still apply.

3. Events

The ban on all social events that need a permit has been extended until September 1. This means no Pinkpop, Nijmeegse Vierdaagse, Zwarte Cross, as well as professional football.

4. High-contact businesses

High-contact businesses (hairdressers, nail salons, massage therapists etc.) will remain closed until at least May 20.

5. New extension

Most of the measures that are already in place have been extended until May 20. This means visits to nursing homes remain banned.

“Better safe than sorry”

Prime Minister Rutte stressed that the basic rules still apply: Wash your hands often, work from home when possible, keep a 1.5-metre distance from others, only go out for groceries and exercise etc. Rutte stated that beating the virus can only be done together and asked people to hold on and stay strong as: “The freedom of one person cannot be at the expense of the health of another.”

Are you worried about having symptoms? Read Coronavirus: What are the symptoms and how can you avoid getting it?