Madrid Nightlife Set To Restart As Cases Receed.

Madrid’s legendary nightlife which has been paralysed by the pandemic looks set to restart according to the regions health chief, Enrique Ruiz Escudero.

Speaking to broadcaster, Antena 3 ’ today, the minister said that the outlook was good with the continuing downward trend in the regions’s infection rates.

Nevertheless Madrid’s 14 day cumulative infection rate of 202 per 100,000 inhabitants is above the national average of 135 and well above some other regions such as Valencias 29.

The regional health authorities have highlighted that the 7 day rate is only 88 per 100,000 and expect the epidemiological situation to improve further in the coming weeks.

Ruiz Escudero hailed the success of the vaccination programme in reducing infections, saying that 40% of Madrileños have received at least one dose of the vaccine and 20% are now immune from the coronavirus.

Once the figure of 50% has been reached – even of one dose, the regional government can start to look at a how to return to normal business and social activity – without restrictions.

With the national state of alarm ending on May 9th, the country´s 17 autonomous communities are in charge of the fight against Covid-19 and the Madrid government have chosen to maintain the current closure of bars, and restaurants at midnight – with no bar service and tables with a maximum of 6 people.

Nightclubs have been allowed to open dance floors are closed in addition to having the same closing time as other establishments as well as limited 50% capacity for customers and dance halls are presently closed.

The sector has been hit hard by the pandemic with many establishments forced to close or lay off workers. However with earlier opening times as well as significant financial support from the regional government in the way of grants it has come through – more or less – intact.

Should the situation improve the minister said that nightlife would return to normal.

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