20 friends, 50 people in a public event, full school reopening. Comments on the Norwegian government’s announcement today.

Norwegian tv has just aired Prime Minister and members of Health, Education, Culture and Sports sectors’ speech. Our prime minister Erna Solberg has thanked all population for following strictly the safety rules to avoid spreading of Corona virus. Because of the low rate of sick people with Covid-19, the government believes that Norwegian society is ready for some more opening in a few sectors.

One more step towards full reopening for Norwegian society was announced today. The 1 meter distance and constant hand washing rules remain strong.

Schools. From Monday 11th of May, all children can go back to school. From 5th grade til High school (since 1st to 4th graders have already started). Each municipality and school can organize itself to welcome all the students according to the infection control measures.

Groups of friends up to 20 can meet indoors or outdoors, as long as they keep 1 meter distance from each other.

For public events, the number of people is 50. There must be someone in charge of the hygiene and infection control measures.

Our health minister advises:

1. Wash your hands

2. Keep a distance

3. Avoid handshaking

Norway’s National Day, the 17th of May is around the corner. All corps are allowed to play music in a parade, as long as they keep 1 meter distance shoulder to shoulder and 2 meters from each row. Children and adults parades are forbidden this year.

Travel inside Norway is allowed and even encouraged. Travel abroad is not encouraged and those who come back must stay at home for 14 days in quarantine. No one knows when this rule will end yet.

Restaurants may open from June 15th.

Swimming classes, sports activities for children and adults will reopen gradually from June 1st. If I got it right. 😉 I feel like I’ve done simultaneous translation. And it’s not easy to translate from Norwegian to English when my mother tongue is Portuguese. But I like it. I hope it’s useful and you and your family and friends can plan your 17th of May celebration. To be on the safe side, we’ll be a party of 7.