Latvia extends state of emergency

The state of emergency in Latvia due to novel coronavirus infection has been prolonged until January 11.

According to Report, the government and the Crisis Management Council made this decision at a joint meeting.

Speaking to journalists after the conference, PM Krisjanis Karins said the situation with the spread of the COVID-19 in Latvia was "extremely serious" and that the government was forced to extend the state of emergency and tighten restrictions to reduce human contact and break the chain of infection.

The country has also decided to toughen existing restrictions. It is mandatory to wear medical masks in all enclosed spaces, except for houses.