Today CNSU (The National Emergency Committee) have decided to introduce new measures aimed at limiting the spread of the 5th COVID-19 wave.

As per the decision, from January 8th, 2022,the use of home-made or textile masks is now forbidden and only medical protection masks of FFP2 masks will be allowed. In addition, it is once again required to wear a mask, covering the mouth and nose, in all closed and open public spaces.

There are some exceptions to mask wearing and those are:

• children under the age of 5;
• persons who are alone in the office;
• TV presenters and their guests, provided that the distance of 3 meters between persons is observed;
• the representatives of the religious cults, during the services, provided that the distance of 3 meters between persons is observed;
• speakers in closed or open spaces provided that the distance of at least 3 meters between them and any of the other persons in the public is observed;
• persons who carry out intense physical activities and / or in demanding working conditions (high temperatures, high humidity, etc.) or sports activities.It is also proposed that additional measures be taken to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infections to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infections in order to prevent the activity of critical infrastructure authorities / operators from being affected by the administrative activity of their managers. employees, performing shifts or shifts while avoiding contact with each other or using masks with a higher degree of protection (FFP2) in crowded areas.

The use of home-made or textile masks proved to be quite popular, as it allowed for them to be a fashion accessory as well as allowing them to be washed and re-used, however, their use has now been banned, primarily due to the fact that there is no medical or scientific research around the protection quality or effectiveness of using a home-made / textile mask.

Additional Changes to Restrictions

Stores and restaurants opening hours have been changed back to 5 AM – 10 PM, as the holiday celebration period has now ended.

Depending on the locality, there will also be changes to shows and sporting events.

At an incidence below 1 per thousand, most activities will be allowed at a capacity of 50%, for vaccinated, sick or having a negative COVID test. At incidence over 3 per thousand, the capacity will be lowered to 30%. At the time of writing, the COVID-19 incidence rate in Cluj-Napoca is 1.66/1000, which is an increase of 7.79% compared to the previous day, when the incidence rate was 1.54/1000.

Concerts and open-air festivals can be held with up to 500 spectators, and only 100 people can attend the rallies.

You can download and view a copy of the decision here.