AMSTERDAM (Reuters – The Netherlands closed its streets and disrupted Christmas plans. On Sunday, the lockdown was initiated to reduce the COVID-19 increase that is expected from the Omicron variation.

Premier Minister Mark Rutte ordered Saturday’s sudden closure. This included all the important stores as well as restaurants and hairdressers as well as gyms, museums, and public spaces. The shutdown will continue until Sunday, January 14.

Many Dutch citizens were shocked to hear the news as they entered into Christmas and New Year. On Saturday, many people ran out to buy gifts and get haircuts.

Hotel workers sought compensation for their lost earnings during holiday season. Gym owners stressed how important it was to exercise in times of crisis.

“Closing bars and restaurants during such an important month can be extremely difficult and tragic. “We need compensation” and “an exit strategy”, said the Dutch association of hospitality services.

For the Christmas break, all schools will close one week early. Schools will still be open until Monday, January 9, 2009. Households should not receive more than two guests. Outside gatherings must also be limited to two.

After a late-last month’s night lockdown, Coronavirus infections have declined to record levels in the Netherlands. Omicron variants have seen an increase in cases since December, and it is likely that the strain will become more dominant by year’s end.

Hospitals will be faced with a problem as hospitals have had to cancel regular care for several weeks in an effort to keep their beds available due to high COVID-19 patient numbers.

On Saturday, the government stated that they would speed up the administration of vaccine booster shots following a slow start. They now aim to provide additional shots for everyone who is over 60 years old before the month ends.

More than 85% Dutch adults are currently vaccinated. However, less than 9% have had booster shots so far, which is among the lowest European rates.