The Czech government on Wednesday decided to start a 30-day state of emergency next Monday in response to surging COVID-19 cases, according to the Ministry of Health.
"The state of emergency will end in a month and I believe that it will not really be necessary to extend it, because if we do not bring it (the spread of the virus) down in one month, it would definitely be a failure," said Czech Health Minister Roman Prymula.
Under the state of emergency, there will be a series of restriction rules, Prymula said. Indoor events with over 10 participants and outdoor events with over 20 will be banned in the country, except for households, workplaces, elected bodies, courts and selected cultural events.
In restaurants, the maximum of six people can sit at one table, he said, adding that the series of government measures will not touch on shops.
Balls and similar events will be banned as of Monday. Theaters and cinemas can continue playing for an audience of up to 500, but without intermissions for refreshment.
Performances with singing, including opera and musical, will also be banned.
As of Wednesday evening, the country has registered a total of 68,919 confirmed COVID-19 cases, including 655 deaths and 976 currently hospitalized ones.
