Yesterday the government presented its plan for how the country can return to a daily life that is not consumed by COVID-19.

Despite a string of record-high daily infection numbers, the hospital system is not under undue pressure. It is therefore deemed appropriate to implement a gradual phasing out of the COVID-19 restrictions.

Looking forward, we should start regarding COVID-19 as a natural part of our daily lives, as we do with other illnesses. In the same way as with the common flu or colds, each one of us is individually responsible for whether we wish to expose ourselves to the risk of COVID-19 infection.

“It pleases me to announce our plan for the final steps towards normal life,” says Prime Minister Bárður á Steig Nielsen.

“I know that this may appear bold, and I am fully aware that the situation may change at a moment’s notice. But I believe it is important to let the people of the Faroe Islands know that we wish to return to normal daily life.”

The COVID-19 exit strategy, prepared in consultation with the epidemic commission and the health authorities, consists of the following stages:

From 21 January:

• Mass gatherings remain limited to 100 people. Exceptions may be allowed if this is deemed appropriate by the health authorities.
• Event organisers are advised to consult with the COVID-19 advisory board. Email: corona@arb.fo

From 1 February:

•  Bars, nightclubs and restaurants can resume regular opening hours.
• Quarantine guidelines will be eased. Fully vaccinated people will no longer be required to quarantine, even after direct exposure to an infected person.
• Testing procedures will change, and home test kits (quick tests) are recommended for most people.
• PCR tests will be limited to:
  • People who display symptoms
  • Close contacts of infected people (cohabitants)
  • People who test positive in quick tests.

From 15 February:

• Quarantine guidelines will be further eased such that only those who receive positive results from PCR or quick tests will be required to quarantine.

From 28 February:

• All COVID-19 restrictions will be removed.
  This will be done on the condition that the hospital system can cope with the number of COVID-19 patients and other essential institutions function normally.