The Vaud government is taking exceptional measures. They affect rallies, school life and the economy. Nuria Gorrite opens the press conference with a vibrant speech: “The Canton of Vaud State Council stands before you today united and solemn,” begins the President of the Council of State. In recent days, it has acted in concert with federal and intercantonal authorities […]. We have carefully weighed these measures and their impacts and are aware of the effects they will have on prosperity, the economy and our daily lives in the coming weeks. […]. It’s a lot of human lives to save that we are talking about […]. I cannot say it more clearly: you and I must stop standing close to each other, no longer shake hands or kiss each other, we must avoid unnecessary trips, we wash our hands several times times a day. Now and without exception. ”
Forgotten attacks
The “very strong” measures of the Council of State make forget the attacks which began to emerge on its alleged passivity, or its expectation of the measures of the Federal Council. He is opposed to the minimization of the disease by Philippe Leuba a week ago, much criticized. And very far from the rumors of dissension.
“14 days ago, we announced the first case,” said Health Minister Rebecca Ruiz. Seven days later, the first death. Since then, the number of people infected has increased exponentially. ” Friday evening, the number of deaths on Vaud soil was three. Two more than Thursday evening. The number of hospitalizations increased to 43, including 17 in the intensive care unit. And more than 290 cases tested positive are counted, without counting the countless untested.
“To curb the number of contaminations, drastic measures are needed,” continues Rebecca Ruiz. If the OFSP measures have not had the expected effects, it is because they have not been respected enough. ”
On February 28, the Vaud government said it wanted to stick to the measures adopted by the Confederation. Only demonstrations of more than 1,000 people were banned by Bern. Friday is Vaud which tightens the screw more than the Confederation. The latter asked to close the schools until April 4, but the Vaud school was suspended until April 30. The Federal Council prohibits private or public gatherings of more than 100 people and the Vaud State Council prohibits them from 50 people. It must be said that on Vaud territory, the spread of the virus is the most violent in Switzerland.
The triggering of the disaster organization plan (ORCA) allows this restriction of freedoms. “We must stop the spread of the virus,” explains Béatrice Métraux, Minister in charge of Security. “The first effects of the current measures, if they are respected, could be felt in seven to ten days,” added Health Minister Rebecca Ruiz. The government is appealing to everyone’s “responsibility and solidarity”.
Serial cancellations
In the afternoon, cultural, sports, association, political and religious leaders from across the canton announced cancellations and closings. The Grand Council and the Communal Councils can no longer meet, except in an emergency.
The only “entertainment places” that can keep their doors open are restaurants and hotels. But here too, the limit of 50 people applies. Those who are tempted to violate the bans face a fine for “disregarding a decision by the authorities”, as set out in the Criminal Code.
“We have to put everything in place, each and every one of us, including deprogramming ourselves from our normal operations,” says Nuria Gorrite again. I see risky behavior on every street corner. We are actors of the problem and now we have to become actors of the solution. ”
Created: 13.03.2020, 23:21
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