Rome- Italy: The government of Italy has tightened anti-Covid-19 restrictions for the Christmas and New Year holidays, citing increased incidences of the new Omicron form across the country as a cause for alarm.

The cabinet unanimously passed a decree on Thursday that will impose more restrictions in the coming days, including outlawing public gatherings for Christmas and New Year's Eve. Following the cancellation of all public events in the festivities by various mayors and regional administrations, the decision was made.  Discos and nightclubs must close until January 31, 2022, according to the new rule.

To combat the spread of the highly contagious Omicron strain, the validity of the health green pass certificate has been shortened from nine to six months, according to Health Minister Roberto Speranza.

The duration between the completion of full immunization (two doses) and the delivery of a booster dose is also reduced from five to four months under the regulation. "We are in a difficult time," the Minister stated, "and we are putting in place measures that we believe will provide more protection to citizens and our public health system."

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