Bars in Guyana that have been closed since March 2020 will now be allowed to reopen their doors, although at limited capacity, under updated COVID-19 measures announced on Monday.
However, the measures maintain the daily curfew from 10:30 p.m. to 4 a.m. and restrictions on social activities until at least February 28.
The new guidelines allow for the opening of bars and restaurants from 4 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., but restrict indoor dining to 40 percent of the capacity of the building, with tables placed six feet apart and no more than four persons allowed at one table.
Buffet dining remains prohibited.
Staff at the restaurants and bars are required to wear their masks and sanitize tables, chairs and bar countertops after each use.
The guidelines restrict social gatherings and recreational activities including private parties, receptions, wakes, or vigils.
“Restrictions on visitations are still in place at places of quarantine or isolation, prisons or correctional facilities, hospitals and nursing homes,” a government statement said.
“Physical exercise is only allowed in parks, on roads, seawalls and near creeks and rivers. Gyms are also allowed to open at 50 percent capacity while sporting events are subject to approval from the Ministry of Health and must comply with the measures.”
The statement added that while the country’s borders with Brazil and Suriname remain closed, the Lethem crossing will be opened on Thursdays to facilitate trade.
The latest statistics provided by the Ministry of Health show that up to January 31, Guyana had recorded 7,641 confirmed COVID-19 cases, 60 of those being recorded within the last 24 hours of the data being gathered.
The country presently has 874 active cases.
CMC
