Paris enters third lockdown over rising COVID-19 cases

The French government has imposed a strict lockdown in Paris and several other regions to curb the spread of coronavirus.

In the last few weeks, there has been a rise in the rate of COVID-19 cases and hospital admissions.

Olivier Véran, French health minister, had on Monday, described the situation as worrying adding that “every 12 minutes night and day, a Parisian is admitted to an intensive care bed.”

According to Forbes, President Emmanuel Macron had on Wednesday met with the defence council, a group of ministers charged with making final decisions on Covid-related health restrictions, to discuss the pandemic situation.

After consultation, Jean Castex, Prime Minister, announced on Thursday, the decision to go into lockdown effective from Friday.

“The pandemic is accelerating,” Castex said.

“The situation is worsening and it is our responsibility to act so it does not get out of hand.”

The total lockdown would last four weeks in 16 regions across France

Schools, however, are expected to stay open. Businesses with essential services including books and music will also be accessible.

People cannot travel outside the region and can only travel 10km from home. People must work at home at least four days out of five.

Meanwhile, France has reintroduced the use of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine after suspending it for some time over issues of blood clots.

However, the national health regulator recommended its use only for people over 55-years given the reported blood clots were only seen in younger people.