JERUSALEM– Israel is easing lockdown restrictions as studies there revealed the Pfizer vaccine is 95.8 percent effective in preventing hospitalizations and death.
From Sunday, shops, libraries, and museums can open but social distancing and wearing facemasks are still required.
The health ministry said it is the first stage of returning to normal life.
Israel has the highest vaccination rate in the world. More than 49 percent of people have received at least one dose.
Under the easing measures, people are now able to enter shopping malls and tourist attractions such as zoos.
A number of facilities have reopened including gyms, hotels, and synagogues. However they require a “green passport”, a certificate that can only be obtained once you have been vaccinated.
Crowds are now allowed at concerts. Sporting events have reopened at 75 percent capacity but they have a cap of no more than 300 people inside and 500 outside.
Despite the easing of restrictions, Israel’s airport will remain closed for another two weeks.(BBC)
