Popov: Easing of coronavirus restrictions need not be feared

The Health Board's crisis team chief doctor, Dr. Arkadi Popov.
The Health Board's crisis team chief doctor, Dr. Arkadi Popov. Source: ERR

The continued easing of coronavirus restrictions in Estonia is justified and there is no reason to fear, head of the Health Board's crisis team Dr. Arkadi Popov said on Friday.

As the epidemiological situation in Estonia is calm, mitigations seem reasonable and carry minimum risk, Popov said on Friday.

Popov added that there are currently 82 infectious coronavirus patients in Estonia. "In this context it can be said that relaxations must be considered and not be feared," he said.

"We have to go on with them, life must go on and we have to learn how to live together with this disease. In order for us to not be in fear all the time; living an enjoyable life, but at the same time remaining cautious and knowing that there are still certain risks," Popov said, adding that the situation is stabilizing.

Head of the crisis team recommends people comply with the 2+2 rule. "It is reasonable, it protects the population and the Estonian people. It is certain that this rule works and it is the most effective measure. This is why we cannot give it up right now. If we would say that "hey, everything is good and we can act in a way we used to before the epidemic reached Estonia", I'm afraid our epidemiologists would never cope with the problem," Popov said.

The government decided at its Thursday cabinet meeting to further relax coronavirus-related restrictions. As of June 1, bars and restaurants will be permitted to sell alcoholic beverages late at night, and movie theaters will reopen.

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Editor: Anders Nõmm

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