The family ministry in a statement said that it will continue to provide self tests to care and retirement homes in the fight against covid-19. Cahen (DP) also encouraged people to continue wearing masks, wash hands frequently and sanitise surfaces when in contact with individuals at risk of developing stronger covid symptoms.

This advice came two days after for more covid-19 restrictions to be put aside. In this most recent step, the CovidCheck regime is scrapped at hospitals, care homes and prison facilities, and the isolation period in case of infection is reduced to seven days.

Fourth dose for over 70s

While the government said that the low number of cases seen over the last months justifies relaxing covid measures, it also offering the elderly a fourth vaccine shot to boost immunity. Shortly after Cahen’s message, the health ministry also published a press release, recommending another booster jab for people over 70.

The grand duchy and neighbouring countries have been witnessing a continuous upward trend in covid-19 infections. Cases were up 41% during the week from 13 to 19 June compared to the week before. They were up again 13% last week, with 4,485 new infections reported. There were 8,822 active infections on 26 June, the latest data available.

With this in mind, the ministry will send out invitations to residents who have received their last shot four or more months ago--if they are over 70--or three months ago if they are immunodeficient.

The government will temporarily re-open the Victor Hugo hall vaccination centre--from 12 to 30 July--but citizens can get the shot at a pharmacy or their general practitioner’s office too.

Elderly populations are particularly targeted by vaccination campaigns as they represent the majority of covid-related deaths.