October 13 (SeeNews) - Croatia introduced a mandatory use of face masks at closed spaces, as new infections in the country continue to increase, interior minister Davor Bozinovic said.
"We cannot be pleased with the epidemiological situation in Croatia, even though it is not different than the situation all over Europe," Bozinovic said in a statement on Monday, adding the new rules take effect immediately.
Face masks should be worn in transport vehicles, shops, cafes and restaurants (except for the time of eating and drinking), and health institutions, among others, with their use being highly recommended in open spaces where a distance of at least 2 metres from person to person cannot be kept.
In addition, organisers of events that gather more than 50 people are now obliged to obtain a permit from the local authorities at least 5 days before the date of the planned event.
Croatia reported 181 new infections on Monday, down from Sunday's 508, with the number of active cases reaching 2,712. So far, 327 people have died from Covid 19 in Croatia, according to official data.