Cabinet Approves More Openings As Infections Stay Low

Citing the continuing low rate of recorded coronavirus infections, the Israeli Cabinet on Tuesday night approved a further relaxation of the restrictions on a range of public activities.

In a telephone vote of ministers, it was agreed that starting Wednesday swimming pools, theaters and restaurants could reopen, as long as they comply with distancing rules.

In stores, the limit of one person to every 21 square feet was raised to 45 square feet. The six feet distance between customers and sales personnel will remain in force.

The limit on the number of workers permitted in work areas was also cancelled, providing they maintain the six feet distancing between each worker.

Businesses in violation of Health Ministry regulations will be liable to fines of 5,000 shekels.

The Health Ministry’s daily update on Tuesday said the number of coronavirus cases rose to 16,757, an increase of 32, the largest increase since Israel began lifting the restrictions. Of the more than 16,700 cases, just 2,019 are considered active, including 33 patients on ventilators – four more than previously reported.

The nation’s death toll in the pandemic stands at 281.

During the day, it was reported that a fifth-grade student in Bnei Brak’s “Torat Yeshayahu” school was diagnosed with coronavirus. The student’s class is now quarantined for 14 days.

A high school student in Yerushalayim tested positive for coronavirus Tuesday, sending 40 classmates into quarantine.

Also, a fourth teacher at the Navon school in Rehovot was diagnosed with coronavirus, sending her students into immediate quarantine.

On Monday, a teacher’s aide in Yavne was reported to have contracted coronavirus, and six teachers who were in contact with her were instructed to enter home isolation until next Monday.