The Hungarian Prime Minister has just announced new restrictions on people’s movements, starting from 28 March. Only those going to work or running essential errands may leave the house. Shops and pharmacies will remain open, with age limitations on admission. Between 9am and noon, only those over 65 may enter, thus helping protect the most vulnerable members of society during the coronavirus epidemic. These curfew laws will stay in place for two weeks, until 11 April.
In a radio announcement today, Friday 27 March, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stressed that the new decree concerned restrictions on movement, not a prohibition.
Over the fortnight-long curfew, there will be no dining in restaurants but picking up food as take-out is permitted. ‘Essential’ errands are outlined as going out for food, cigarettes or petrol, to go to the post office or deal with any other administrative business, service your vehicle, walk the dog or visit the hairdresser’s. Assisting vulnerable people in need will also be permitted.
Exercise, either alone or with members of the same household, is also allowed, while keeping the required 1.5-metre distance between people.
Fines from 5,000 to 500,000 forints may be imposed for breaking these restrictions.
