In a brief video shared on his social media account, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban spoke of decisions made during Wednesday s cabinet meeting regarding the country coronavirus defence.

„We have won the battle against the first wave and now we have to face the second one, but now we are better prepared and more experienced, equipped with the lessons of a national consultation survey”, PM Orban said.

Citing epidemiologists, the prime minister said the second wave of the coronavirus epidemic will peak sometime around December and January. „Up to that point, we must continue with our defence, but we have a strategy for protecting the elderly, curing the ill and keeping the country up and running”, he added.

PM Orban emphasized that the country s healthcare has been prepared to deal with the pandemic, the equipment and nursing staff are readily available.

Here is a list of decisions reached at Wednesday s cabinet meeting:

• Travel restrictions will remain in place.
• In addition to shops and public transport vehicles, the wearing of masks will be mandatory in cinemas, theatres, healthcare and social institutions, as well as customer service offices.
• A complete ban on visits to hospitals and elderly homes will be maintained.
• Starting on 1 October, only teachers and students will be allowed into school buildings following a temperature check. Parents will not be permitted to enter school buildings.
• The price of coronavirus tests will be maximised at 19,500 forints (appr. 54 euros).
• Bars, restaurants, and clubs must close no later than 11 pm.

„I ask everyone to abide by the regulations, not only for their own sake, but also for the sake of the elderly and the sick. I have instructed the interior minister to monitor compliance with the rules and penalise those who violate them,” the Hungarian premier said in conclusion, adding that „we ve already succeeded once, and we ll succeed again. Let s look out for each other!”