Some countries reconsider 2-metre rule for physical distancing, but not Canada

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Photo: Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press

(CBC News) — Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s chief public health officer, continues to recommend people stay two metres apart from others to curb COVID-19 as the economy reopens and countries like Britain relax their distancing rule.

On Tuesday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced pubs, restaurants and hotels could reopen in England from July 4 with relaxed distancing from two metres to “one metre plus,” as long as there is mitigation, such as wearing face coverings or using protective screens.

Britain’s hospitality industry pushed for the rule change. Johnson said local flare ups are expected, just as other countries experienced after loosening restrictions, and that his government will not hesitate to re-apply the brakes nationally if needed.

Switzerland reduced its distancing recommendation from two metres to 1.5 metres this week. China and France already use the 1-metre rule for physical distancing. Germany and Australia have adopted 1.5 metres. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends six feet, or 1.8 metres. (…)

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