In the red corner: the COVID-19 virus we all know by name but don’t know how to defeat. And in the blue corner: HUMANITY! Tired, worn out, stubborn to fight the disease of the decade (dare I say that?) with everything it has.
Sorry for being dramatic but I honestly have no idea how to deal with this anymore. The promised second wave is upon us like flies on a pile of dung, and as per my usual style I would add here a list of witty things that suck but alas, I’m battling with the common cold, which let me tell you is no picnic at the time of a global virus, and am just over it. Maybe next time.
We must be safe and smart (again and still), so I urge you to familiarize yourself with the following list of regulations and restrictions.
Masks, gatherings and social distance
- Wearing a mask (covering the nose and the mouth) is mandatory in stores, on public transportation, in theatres, cinemas, malls, health and social institutions. Pretty much anywhere that is inside. Failure to do so will result in a fine (see tips below).
- It is strongly recommended that people avoid crowded places and gatherings.
- Washing your hands thoroughly and often as well as keeping social distance should be common sense by now.
- Restaurants, bars and clubs may be open but are required to close at 11 pm the latest.
- Events with up to (an no more than) 500 participants may be held.
- If you experience any symptoms of COVID, stay at home and call your doctor.
- There is a ban on visitation in all hospitals and social institutions.
Schools and travel
- Schools are open, but only teachers and students may enter, and only after having their temperature taken. (Some schools have introduced a system where on week A, 50% of students attend and the rest study online, and on week B, they switch.)
- Hungary has closed its borders to most foreign nationals. There are some limited circumstances in which foreign nationals may be allowed entry. Details can be found HERE.
- Hungarian citizens returning home from a foreign country are required to be quarantined in their homes. This may be circumvented if they can provide 2 PCR tests, taken 48 hours or more apart, both with negative results.
- Nationals of countries neighbouring Hungary – as well as Hungarian citizens living in these countries – may enter for up to 24 hours, but only within a zone that is not more than 30 kilometres from the border.
Foreign citizens transiting through Hungary may enter if the following criteria are met:
- A health check is completed, and the hazard of infection can be ruled out.
- Citizen is legally permitted to travel within Hungary by the Schengen code of travel.
- Can officially confirm the reason of travel as well as target country.
- If you wish to travel, make sure to consult Consular Services.
Some helpful links:
- Here’s a handy little guide regarding symptoms.
- The status on Hungary and whether travel to Hungary is advised can be found HERE.
- If you need an English-speaking doctor, you might find this list helpful.
I suddenly find myself in the mood for some Celebrity Death Match videos.
Be good, wash your hands and put them together to pray this madness away!