During his televised address this Wednesday at 8 p.m., Emmanuel Macron announced a new confinement.
Scheduled at least until December 1, this drastic turn of the screw should help stem the spread of the coronavirus on French soil.
A drastic turn of the screw.
As Europe 1 indicated on Wednesday, President Emmanuel Macron has decided to cross his red line to fight the second wave of coronavirus which is hitting France with unexpected violence - more than 3,000 patients in intensive care according to the latest figures .
In a televised address this Wednesday at 8 p.m., the Head of State therefore announced a new general confinement, which must last at least until December 1.
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France confined again
"We are overwhelmed by the sudden acceleration of the epidemic", admitted Emmanuel Macron, referring to a second wave "probably harder and more deadly than the first".
Some "9,000 patients will be in intensive care in mid-November" added the Head of State, taking up the projections of the Pasteur Institute.
"In this context, my responsibility is to protect all French people and despite the controversies, I assume it."
Therefore, to put "a brutal brake on the number of contaminations, Emmanuel Macron announced what he considers to be the" right strategy ":" After consulting scientists, economic and social forces, after having weighed the for and against, I decided that it was necessary to find from Friday the confinement which stopped the virus. "
All territories are concerned, with adaptations for the overseas departments and territories, nevertheless specified the president.
Closure of bars and restaurants
"As in spring", it will be possible to go out to work, to go to a medical appointment, to do essential shopping, or to take the air near home.
But, private meetings outside the strict family circle are excluded, public gatherings prohibited.
As for non-essential businesses, including bars and restaurants, they will be closed.
As for travel between regions, it is also prohibited.
Note that it is possible to return home for the end of the All Saints holidays.
"It is the return of the certificate", summarized the president.
Open schools
Unlike the first confinement, "nurseries, schools, colleges and high schools will remain open with reinforced health protocols," said Emmanuel Macron.
"Faculties and higher education institutions will, in contrast, provide online courses."
In addition, visits to nursing homes remain authorized.
"Wherever possible, telework will again be generalized" added the Head of State.
"Employees and employers who cannot work will continue to benefit from partial unemployment."
>> More information to follow ...