On 29 September 2020, authorities implemented new nationwide measures — effective for at least the next three weeks — in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the Netherlands. Prime Minister Mark Rutte has asked residents to avoid travel between Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague, the country’s three largest cities. Additionally, patrons inside commercial establishments in those cities are advised to wear face masks, which is a countrywide requirement for anyone using public transport. Indoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 40 people, while gatherings occurring outdoors are limited to a maximum of 30 people. Spectators are banned from attending sporting events, and hospitality venues — such as bars and restaurants — must shut down by 2200 local time (2000 UTC) daily. These measures are being enacted as health officials in the country registered a record high 3,011 new COVID-19 cases on 29 September. There has been a notable rise in COVID-19 cases in the Netherlands recently, with nearly 3,000 new such cases being reported daily for the past three days.
Additional details regarding new restrictions outlined by the Dutch government can be viewed here.
