Fifth Wave of Coronavirus in France

We've been watch the coronavirus roar back, for a fifth wave - the increase in new cases is incredible! 

We knew the government was going to announce new measures, but what was left to do? Well, scheduled just after noon on Thanksgiving day, the Health Minister told us.

The US embassy sent a good summary of the new French covid rules. To quote...

The French government announced a number of changes to French COVID-19 measures, including changes to rules regarding vaccination and the health pass:

- Booster vaccinations will open for all adults (ages 18 and above) on November 27. The booster shot will be available five (5) months after receiving the second dose. France will reopen 300 vaccination centers to assist with the booster shot campaign.

- People age 65 and older must receive a booster dose by December 15, or their health pass will expire.

- People age 18-64 must receive a booster within seven (7) months after their second dose or their health pass will expire beginning on January 15, 2022. 

- Temporary health passes based on a negative COVID test will be reduced to 24 hours, rather than the current 72 hours, beginning on November 29. 

- Wearing a face mask indoors is again mandatory in all public indoor spaces as of November 25, regardless of vaccination status. Local authorities have the authority to require face masks outside in certain areas, such as Christmas markets.

- Vaccines for children will not begin before the end of the year, after the French health authority has had time to examine the issue, including the European Medicines Agency's November 25 approval of the vaccine for this age group.

- School rules for elementary schools will change November 29. Under the new rules, when a student in an elementary class tests positive, all the students will be tested, but those who test negative will be allowed to return to class.