Indoors mask mandate lifted for some public places as of August 11

From Thursday, 11 August, wearing protective face masks will only be required in medical facilities, pharmacies, opticians, specialised institutions for social care service and for residential social services for children and adults.

Masks will also be required when using public transport and staying at relevant stops/stations that are indoors. An exception to the requirement to wear a protective mask is allowed for children up to 6 years of age.

The order was signed today, 9 August, by the caretaker Minister of Health, Dr. Assen Medzhidiev. The issuance of the order is aimed at unifying anti-epidemic measures in the country, in view of the stage of spread of COVID-19 at present. The order will be in force until 18 August, inclusive.

It also states that employers and appointing authorities shall organise the implementation of anti-epidemic measures in workplaces, including regular ventilation and disinfection; preventing persons with symptoms of acute respiratory diseases from entering workplaces; and instruction on proper hygiene. Where possible, work may also be organised remotely or with variable working hours.

In nurseries and kindergartens, staff members and children should be screened in the mornings before entering the buildings and those with clinical symptoms of COVID-19 and other communicable diseases will not be permitted to attend. Daily screening should also be applied at specialised social care service institutions and residential social services for children and adults and people displaying Covid-19 symptoms will not be admitted.