BRUSSELS, Dec. 22 (Xinhua) -- Belgium has imposed extra measures to slow the spread of the Omicron variant, which is causing a spike in cases across Europe.
From Dec. 26, indoor Christmas markets, cinemas, theaters and concert halls will be closed, but museums and libraries will stay open.
Meanwhile, sporting events will continue, but without spectators.
"The aim in taking these measures is to manage the pressure on hospitals and ensure schools can reopen from Jan. 10, 2022," said Belgian PM Alexander De Croo.
Previous measures decided on Dec. 3, such as mandatory mask-wearing in indoor public spaces, working from home four days a week, and closing bars and restaurants at 11 p.m., will remain in force.
To date, 77 percent of the population in Belgium has been vaccinated, according to the latest data from Sciensano health institute.
Much more contagious than the previous variants, Omicron is expected to be the dominant variant in Belgium by the start of 2022, local media reported.
To date, Belgium has recorded 2,014,380 COVID-19 infections and 28,035 deaths since the start of the epidemic. Enditem