In an attempt to reclaim economies to their former glory, various countries in Europe are relaxing COVID-19 protocols despite the rapid rise of the Omicron variant.

Starting Feb. 1, the health ministry in Italy announced it will relieve restrictions for all European Union visitors. Minister of Health Roberto Speranza signed an order for travelers from EU countries to have a "green pass."

Reuters noted that the Green Pass is essentially a certification of COVID-19 immunity shown with proof of vaccination, previous infection, or a negative test.

According to The New York Times, Austria is terminating all protocols for those who are unvaccinated.

In the U.K., British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also loosened measures. BBC News noted Johnson's move to lift all Plan B measures, meaning it is no longer mandatory to wear a face covering indoors. Self-isolation time periods have also been decreased.

England lifts virtually all of its coronavirus restrictions, setting it at odds with the three other nations of the United Kingdom and sparking concern among scientists.
England lifts virtually all of its coronavirus restrictions, setting it at odds with the three other nations of the United Kingdom and sparking concern among scientists. AFP / Tolga Akmen

Denmark also intends to remove all protocols by Feb.1. The government released a statement Wednesday stating that measures such as face coverings in care home environments would still be mandatory, but it has “decided that COVID-19 should no longer be categorized as a socially critical disease" after Jan. 31, as noted by CNBC.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said “we really are taking a risk today” in announcing that bars, restaurants and museums were allowed to reopen on Wednesday.

Although case numbers are decreasing in the U.K., infections in France and Germany are still reaching record highs.

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