A relaxation of the current mask mandate and a complete removal of the weekly arrivals cap was announced Nov. 28 by the Cabinet-level Central Epidemic Command Center.

Starting Dec. 1, people in Taiwan will no longer be required to wear masks in outdoor settings, the CECC said, adding that whether the rule change will apply to large-scale gatherings in open spaces like New Year’s Eve countdown events will be decided according to pandemic developments.

According to the CECC, people should still carry a mask with them as wearing one remains mandatory indoors, including when taking public transportation and airplanes. Masks are also still required when an individual is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or social distancing with strangers cannot be practiced, the center said.

People do not need to wear a mask indoors when exercising; singing; taking individual or group photos; driving by oneself (driving alone) or with live-in family members; livestreaming, filming, moderating an event, reporting, delivering remarks, giving a speech, lecturing or taking part in activities and events involving conversations with others; and engaging in water activities or visiting hot or cold springs, dry sauna rooms, spas, steam rooms, saunas and other venues where masks can get wet easily, the CECC said. Masks may be removed when consuming food and beverages, the center added.

Masks can be removed indoors at venues designated by the CECC or competent authorities and when taking part in activities where proper disease prevention measures are in place, the CECC said. Table-to-table toasting will be allowed again at banquets, the center added.

Beginning Dec. 10, Taiwan will remove its current weekly cap on visitors from abroad as the local epidemic has gradually slowed and is under stable control, the CECC said.

Latest CECC statistics confirm 8,295,652 COVID-19 cases and 14,297 deaths in Taiwan. (DL-E)

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