Health Minister Venko Filipche said the coronavirus epidemiological situation is stable, but warned that it remains critical considering the number of infections and hospitalizations.

“There are beds available and r0 is below one after a certain period of time. But, it is not yet time to relax, we must not allow worsening of the situation,” said Filipche on Tuesday launching the “Celebrate Responsibly” campaign at a news conference alongside PM Zoran Zaev.

On the average last week, 1,300-1,400 patients were admitted to hospitals for treatment, he said, adding the number of hospital beds available was constant across the country.

To curb the spread of the new coronavirus this holiday season, earlier in the day the government approved a new set of restrictive measures, which involve bars and restaurants closing at 6 pm, bans for New Year’s celebrations in squares outdoors, barring the companies to organize holiday parties, as well as recommendations for the religious communities not to organize mass gatherings for the holidays. Also, household gatherings are not advised and the citizens are advised not to go out after 6 pm.

“It is largely up to the awareness of the citizens. Unfortunately, there’s no mechanism to make sure the ban for household gatherings is followed, because the integrity of the home is guaranteed under the Constitution. We all have to be responsible and not allow the time spent with family to be turned into a scary memory. We should celebrate the holidays responsibly by adhering to the measures and to take care of our health first and the health of our loved ones,” stressed Minister Filipche.

Also, he told the news conference that modular hospitals were being installed in towns across the country, including Gevgelija, Shtip, Bitola, Struga, Kichevo, and Strumica.