The Swiss Federal Council decided on 1 October that Corona tests will be subject to a charge from 11 October. Since the introduction of mandatory certificates (vaccinated, recovered, tested) for restaurants, turnover in the hospitality industry has already dropped by 20 percent. Now the Swiss association Gastrosuisse fears additional declines.
"Many people are thus denied access to the restaurant industry. In addition, this aggravates the situation in the hospitality industry, as many businesses already have fewer guests and significant declines in sales due to the certificate requirement," writes the association Gastrosuisse in a statement.
He expects further declines in guest numbers and thus sales when testing becomes chargeable from October 11. "Many banquets, group dinners and other occasions will be cancelled as a result first right", concludes Platzer from many feedbacks from members and guests. Making matters worse, he says, is that temperatures are starting to drop, which means outdoor areas will be less frequented.
From the payment obligation for Coronatests due starting from 11 October people once vaccinated as well as young people under 16 remain exempt. In addition, the Federal Council launched a new vaccination offensive. 170 new mobile vaccination centres and 50-franc vouchers for successful vaccination advice are on the agenda.
The Federal Office of Public Health reported 1,211 corona cases on Friday, October 1, while the 7-day average was 1,176 reported cases, down 22 percent from the previous week. Meanwhile, 58.5 percent of the Swiss population is dually vaccinated. Nationwide in Switzerland, mouth-to-nose protection must be worn on public transportation, in stores, museums, restaurants, at train stations, airports and bus stops, and in all indoor public spaces. Inside restaurants and bars, a certificate obligation (vaccinated, recovered, tested) has been in force since 13 September. In addition, mandatory seating is in effect.