New Restrictions in Artsakh Starting Tomorrow: What Obligations Will Be Imposed

Artsakh’s State Minister Artak Beglaryan announced on his Facebook page:

“Dear compatriots,

Considering the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases in Artsakh over the past few days and the significant risks posed to public health, the responsible authorities in the healthcare system have proposed that the government implement certain temporary restrictions in order to effectively prevent further dangerous developments in a timely manner. Therefore, today a decision by the Artsakh government has been established, effective from tomorrow, October 13. The complete version of the decision will be published on arlexis.am, but I would like to briefly mention the following provisions:

1. Autumn holidays in public educational institutions will begin on October 18 for not only elementary but also middle and high school students instead of October 25, lasting until November 1.
2. In higher educational institutions, classes will be conducted remotely.
3. Client entry into service offices without masks is prohibited.
4. At the entrance, containers with disinfectants containing at least 70% alcohol will be provided for mandatory hand sanitization of each entering person.
5. Mass events will be conducted using personal protective equipment, adhering to sanitary-epidemiological safety rules.
6. Events in enclosed spaces will be limited to a maximum of 120 participants.
7. Wearing masks is mandatory in enclosed spaces for everyone except:
   • children aged 0-10 years inclusive.
   • individuals in their residence (house, apartment).
   • speakers and direct participants at ceremonial events led by the President of the Republic of Artsakh, the Primate of the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Artsakh, the State Minister of Artsakh, the President of the Supreme Court of Artsakh, the Chairman of the Council of Court Administration of Artsakh (excluding journalists and service staff).
   • people traveling in personal vehicles (except when providing irregular passenger transport).
   • sign language interpreters during television broadcasts.
   • persons with varying degrees of hearing and speech impairments (who perceive speech by following lip movements) and those working with them.
   • when smoking, drinking, and eating.
   • other cases established by the sanitary regulations approved by the Minister of Health of the Republic of Artsakh.
   • television presenters when alone in the television studio during broadcasts.
   • individuals with psychiatric disorders and behavioral disorders.
   • individuals with cognitive impairments.
   • individuals with facial injuries or those who have undergone oral and maxillofacial interventions.

A number of other provisions and restrictions are also included in the decision aimed at preserving everyone’s health. Nevertheless, I want to emphasize that each person's health primarily depends on themselves, and we all must show an appropriate level of vigilance, especially for the sake of our vulnerable loved ones' lives. Most importantly, we must not overlook the significance of vaccination, as it is considered the most effective preventive measure. Therefore, I urge everyone to visit health facilities and get vaccinated.

Health and vigilance to us all!”