De Jonge: new mutation coronavirus cause for concern | Inland

The mutation of the virus has also surfaced in the Netherlands, according to research by the RIVM. The cabinet already imposed a flight ban for travelers from the United Kingdom on the night from Saturday to Sunday and is looking at how “we can further limit the introduction of the virus from the United Kingdom,” said De Jonge.

According to the minister, it cannot be ruled out that additional measures must be taken in addition to the lockdown that is already in force in the Netherlands because of the new virus variant. “That is conceivable. As everything is conceivable in this crisis. But, step by step. We first need more information about the infectivity of this virus, and the extent to which that mutation is already present on Dutch soil. We know of one case, which we are now investigating. Who that was, with whom that person had contact. ”

The Outbreak Management Team (OMT) will meet on Monday to discuss the new variant of the corona virus. On Tuesday, the relevant ministers from the cabinet will meet to discuss the situation.

In addition to the flight ban, it is also being examined how other forms of transport between the two countries can be restricted. Belgium decided earlier in the day that the Eurostar trains will no longer be welcome for at least the next 24 hours. Train travel between the UK and the Netherlands is therefore no longer an option for the time being. Ferries between the UK and the Netherlands still operate.

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