Portuguese American Journal

October 1: Authorities relaxing most pandemic restrictions – Portugal

Prime Minister António Costa has announced on Thursday that, effective October 1, Portugal is officially fully COVID’19 vaccinated, with more than 8.5 million people inoculated, or 83.4% of its population.

Declaring October 1 “Freedom Day!” the Prime Minister said that by the end of this week, “Portugal should have 85% of its citizens fully vaccinated.” 

Currently, Portugal stands as the most fully vaccinated nation in the world, with almost all adults over 65 and half of young people aged between 12 and 17 inoculated, allowing authorities to relax pandemic restrictions on a massive scale.

Although people may still be required to show a digital vaccination certificate, or a negative COVID’19 test upon request, digital certificates or negative tests will no longer be mandatory to attend cultural and family events.

Nightclubs and bars will be free to reopen, with no limits to the number of people allowed. including restaurants and cafes.

Vaccination certificates are only required for air or sea travel, to book hotels, enter gyms and attend major cultural or sporting events.

The head of Portugal’s vaccination task force, Vice-Admiral Henrique de Gouveia e Melo, has been credited and widely praised for leading the process which allowed Portugal to lift most of its coronavirus restrictions. The populations of Portugal is estimated at about 10.31 million (2020).

**Report a correction or typo to editor@portuguese-american-journal.com. We are committed to upholding our journalistic standards, including accuracy. Carolina Matos/Editor.

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