Decree 554-20 extends the curfew for another 25 days, from 18 October to 11 November 2020. The curfew will continue to be in force from Monday to Friday from 9pm to 5am and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 7pm to 5am.
Decree 553-20, also issued on Friday, 16 October 2020, extends the National Emergency Declaration for another 45 days, through 1 December 2020.
The use of facial masks continues to be mandatory in public places and in private places where there are people gatherings to control the spread of Covid-19.
Penalties for the violation of the preventive measures are established by the General Health Law No. 42-01.
Yet, anyone who was around and about on Saturday and Sunday could tell pandemic fatigue has set in and people are getting about their lives, including meeting with family and friends. In major cities, most Dominicans have complied with the mask ruling. Yet, thousands turned out at restaurants where they can sit for hours with friends and families without masks. The preference is for restaurants with outdoor terraces. Yet over the weekend, indoor restaurants were also packed. One new Asian franchise restaurant, NacionSushi in Piantini, Santo Domingo, was not taking reservations because it was so full. And seating is only indoors.
The media carries the story of the crowd gathering in Parque Duarte in the Colonial City.
Meanwhile, the authorities continue to release reports that show the virus is now under control in the Dominican Republic and gradually, the number of cases and deaths is declining.
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Listin Diario
Hoy
18 October 2020