This page is updated on a daily basis. In it we offer facts, data and emergency information about the Coronavirus in Vienna and Austria in English
Coronavirus
Omicron: The Most Contagious Virus in History
The new SARS-CoV-2 variant is spreading like wildfire and causing record-breaking numbers of COVID-19 cases. EXPLAINER
Coronavirus
No Omicron parties, please
Many people ask me whether they should intentionally get COVID-19’s Omicron variant and just get it over with. Their reasoning - it’s spreading like ...
Coronavirus
Covid Update from Austria and the World
February 6, 2022
Here is my COVID-19 update again. Worldwide, we are currently at about 394 million official SARS-CoV-2 infections and 5,753,000 o...
Coronavirus in Austria
Coronavirus in Austria | Austria to Ease Restrictions in February
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 in Austria this week – updated regularly.
Coronavirus
Latest on Omicron: Europe Facing Rising Infection Rates in Most Countries
Metropole brings you regular COVID-19 update from Prof. Dr. Florian Krammer, an Austrian virologist who works and teaches at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City.
Coronavirus in Austria
Covid on January 17-23 | 500,000 Police Checks Conducted Since January 11
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 in Austria this week – updated regularly.
Coronavirus in Austria
Covid on January 10-16 | Thousands March Against Mandatory Vaccination in Vienna
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 in Austria this week – updated regularly.
Coronavirus in Austria
Coronavirus in Austria | Thousands March Against Mandatory Vaccination in Vienna
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 in Austria this week – updated regularly.
Coronavirus in Austria
Covid on January 3-9 | Austrian Ministries Report 10,291 New Infections
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s everything you need to know about COVID-19 in Austria this week – updated regularly.
Coronavirus
Careful! Our Eyes are Vulnerable
Wave after wave of COVID-19, and we’re still unable to defend against widespread community infection, even worse with the new omicron variant.
May...
Coronavirus
Covid on December 13-22 | Cases Drop, Omicron Beckons
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in from December 13-22, 2021.
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Covid on December 6-12 | Over a Third of Austrians Got a Booster Shot
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of December 6-12, 2021.
Coronavirus
Right-Wing Freedom Party’s Fake News About Hospitals Full of People With “Vaccine Damage” Causes Out...
Right-wing Freedom Party Dagmar Belakowitsch caused outrage by claiming that hospitals are filled with people with vaccination "damage".
Coronavirus
Covid on Nov. 29 – Dec. 5 | Cases Dropping Sharply
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of November 29 to December 5, 2021.
Coronavirus
Omicron Variant of Corona Virus Confirmed in Austria
Omicron is officially in Austria. With vaccine protection and virulence unconfirmed, PCR tests are being upgraded to help track the spread.
Coronavirus
Covid on November 22-28 | EMA Approves Vaccine for Children Aged 5-11
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of November 22-28, 2021.
Coronavirus
Update: Austria’s Travel Restrictions Under Nationwide Lockdown
Planning a trip to Austria for the holiday season? While borders are still open during the nationwide lockdown and travel from most countries is possible, tourism is effectively closed under current regulations.
Coronavirus
Covid on November 15-21 | Fourth Lockdown, Boosters for Everyone
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of November 15-21 2021.
Coronavirus
Nationwide Lockdown Begins Monday; Mandatory Vaccines from 2022
Austria announced a nationwide lockdown starting Monday, as well as the introduction of mandatory vaccines from 2022.
Coronavirus
Third Shots and Boosters Against COVID-19 – What You Need to Know
With record-breaking numbers of new cases, it’s time for everyone to get their first, second and third jabs.
Coronavirus
Get Your Booster Shot Now!
On Sunday, Metropole brings you a COVID-19 update from Prof. Dr. Florian Krammer, an Austrian virologist who works and teaches at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City.
Coronavirus
Covid on November 8-14 | Lockdown for Unvaccinated, Boosters, New Rules
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of November 8-14 2021.
Coronavirus
Austria-Wide Lockdown Starting Midnight, Vaccine Boosters in Vienna After 4 Months
A country-wide lockdown for unvaccinated people will go into effect at midnight - and other updates.
Coronavirus
Where the “2-G Rule” Applies in Austria and What It Means
As of November 8, only those vaccinated or recovered can enter many venues in Austria. Here’s how the “2-G” rule works.
Coronavirus
Covid on November 1-7 | Almost 10,000 New Daily Infections
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of November 1-7, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on October 25-31 | Over 6,000 Daily Infections
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of October 25-31, 2021.
Coronavirus
Anti-Vaccine Party MFG Positions Itself Across Austria
The anti-vaccine party entered the Upper Austrian assembly during the regional elections in September and now plans to run nationwide.
Coronavirus
Proof of 3G in the Workplace from November
Starting on November 1, the “3 -G rule” will apply at Austrian workplaces. That means workers need to be vaccinated, recovered, or tested.
Coronavirus
Covid on October 18-24 | Daily Infections Highest Since April
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of October 18-24, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on October 4-10 | Young People Feel Psychological Strain of Pandemic
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of October 4-10, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on September 27 – October 3 | Stricter Rules in Place in Vienna
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of September 27 – October 3, 2021.
Coronavirus
Black Fungus: Another Risk with COVID-19
Doctors have discovered that COVID patients are more susceptible to infection with mucurmycetes molds. The infection is still rare in Europe, but on the rise and dangerous.
Coronavirus
Covid on September 20-26 | Cases on Downward Trend
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of September 20-26, 2021.
Coronavirus
First Ischgl Lawsuit for COVID-19 Damages Filed
More than a year after the Ischgl outbreak the first lawsuit was brought before the civil court last Friday.
The widow and son of a 72-year-old jo...
Coronavirus
Covid on September 13-19 | Diabetes as Risk Factor for COVID-19
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of September 13-19, 2021.
Coronavirus
Vienna’s Current Coronavirus Rules – in Short
With cases numbers rising and vaccination numbers stalling, the City of Vienna has introduced new measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Coronavirus
Covid on September 6-12 | Over 96% of ICU Patients in Vienna Not Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of September 6-12, 2021.
Coronavirus
Austria’s COVID-19 Plan for the Fall
Almost two thirds of Austrians are vaccinated, but the coronavirus is now spreading fast among the unvaccinated. The government has now presented their plan for the fall.
Coronavirus
What the New Austrian School Year Brings
As students return to school across Austria, new rules aim to keep them safe. Here’s all you need to know about the coronavirus rules and what other innovations await pupils
Coronavirus
Covid on August 30 – September 5 | Vienna Starts Giving Booster Shots
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of August 30 to September 5, 2021.
Coronavirus
President Van der Bellen Urges Austrians to Get Vaccinated
Responding to stagnating vaccination rates, the Austrian head of state posted a personal video message asking everyone to “be part of the solution.”
Coronavirus
Where to Get Vaccinated in Vienna Without an Appointment
In Vienna, there are several places where you can get vaccinated in Vienna without an appointment. We show you when, where and how.
Coronavirus
Covid on August 23-29 | PCR Tests in Vienna Now Only Valid for 48 Hours
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of August 23-29, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on August 16-22 | Unvaccinated 12 Times More Likely to Be Infected Than Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of August 16-22, 2021.
Coronavirus
Austria Introduces New Measures After a Surge in Cases
The government is once again tightening coronavirus measures after the relative summer calm, bracing the country for a potential fourth wave after the number of Covid-19 infections nears 1,000 new cases per day.
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COVID-19 Vaccines for Young Children: The Next Step When Trial Results Are in
Deciding to vaccinate the under-12s means weighing the risks of vaccination for some, against the probably greater risks of infection.
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Covid on August 9-15 | Fourth Wave Gains Momentum
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of August 9-15, 2021.
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Covid on August 2-8 | Booster Shots Planned for October
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of August 2-8, 2021.
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Covid on July 26 – August 1 | Half of Population Fully Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of July 19-25, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on July 19-25 | Vaccines Highly Effective Against Delta Variant
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of July 19-25, 2021.
Coronavirus
The Government Tightens Measures as Infections Spike Due to the Delta Variant
Nightclubs will have tougher entrance restrictions, Vienna offers walk-in vaccinations. Starting on August 15, full immunization will be required for getting the “green pass.”
Coronavirus
Covid on July 12-18 | Higher Share of Europeans Than Americans Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of July 12-18, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on July 5-11 | Cases Rising Again Due to Delta
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of June 5-11, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on June 28 – July 4 | Incidence Falls to One-Year Low
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of June 28 – July 4, 2021.
Coronavirus
Long-term Immunity – Memory Cells Never Forget
To end the COVID-19 pandemic once and for all, we need long-lived protection.
Coronavirus
Summer in Vienna Brings Lifted Restrictions
As the weather gets warmer, restrictions are continuing to soften. Soon we will be able to enjoy summer in Vienna as we know it – night clubs are reopening, weddings and big events will be unrestricted.
Coronavirus
Covid on June 21-27 | Half of Austrian Population Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of June 21-27, 2021.
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Covid on June 14-20 | Infection Numbers Continue to Drop
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of June 14-20, 2021.
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Covid on June 7-13 | Traveling Within EU Largely Free Again
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of June 6-13, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on May 31 – June 6 | Pandemic Eases Further
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of May 31 to June 6, 2021.
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Covid on May 24-30 | Over 5 Million Vaccine Doses Administered
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of May 24-30, 2021.
Coronavirus
Quarantine Requirements in Austria Lifted for a Number of Countries
The Austrian government ended quarantine requirements for several countries on May 19. But entry from many others remain restricted – especially those affected by COVID-19 variants.
Coronavirus
Lockdown Update – Austria’s Current Coronavirus Measures
Austria’s lockdown was lifted on May 19, but there are still measures in place to contain COVID-19. Here’s how it works.
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Covid on May 17-23 | Austria Opens Up, Incidence <50
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of May 17-23, 2021.
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Covid on May 10-16 | Incidence Falls to 7-Months-Low
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of May 10-16, 2021.
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All You Need to Know About Austria’s Green Pass
Hailed as a ticket back to normal life, the certificate will provide access to culture, gastronomy and sporting facilities. Here’s an overview.
Coronavirus
“Vaccines for All” Campaign Calls for Fair Global Distribution
As vaccination rates pick up, a new initiative pushes for a more equal rollout.
Coronavirus
Austria’s Vaccination Plan Explained
All you need to know about Austria’s vaccination plan – where to register, what to expect and current vaccination numbers.
Coronavirus
Covid on May 3-9 | Over a Third of Population Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of May 3-9, 2021.
Coronavirus
Covid on April 26 – May 2 | Every Fourth Resident of Austria Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of April 26 to May 2, 2021.
Coronavirus
How the EU Got Its COVID Vaccine Program Back on Track
Just three months on from January’s low point, the European Union’s vaccination effort has rebounded, predicting 70% of adults protected by mid July.
Coronavirus
Covid on April 19-25 | Over 2 Million People in Austria Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of April 19 to April 25, 2021.
Coronavirus
Austria to Open Up on May 19
Schools will resume in-person instruction on May 17. Starting on May 19, restaurants and hotels can reopen, culture and sports events can take place again – for those who are tested or vaccinated. Here are all the details
Coronavirus
Rudolf Anschober Resigns as Health Minister, Citing Exhaustion
After 15 months leading Austria’s response to the pandemic, the widely respected leader stepped down on April 13.
Coronavirus
“Easter Lockdown” in Vienna & Lower Austria Expired on May 3
With rising case numbers, intensive care beds in the eastern states are filling fast. A strict “cooling-down” is meant to bring this under control.
Coronavirus
“Osterruhe” in Vienna – Cooperation (Mostly) Holds as More Are Vaccinated
Public life has been halted once again by strict lockdown. But as numbers continue high, many question if the measures are really working.
Coronavirus
WKÖ and ÖGB Condemn “Easter Lockdown”
In a rare show of unity, the Austrian Economic Chambers and Trade Union Federation call the latest anti-COVID measures “not feasible” in a joint statement.
Coronavirus
Every Viennese to Get Four Free PCR “Gargle” Tests Every Week
A major rollout initiated by the city government and the Wirtschaftskammer should ensure everyone can conduct PCR-tests from home
Coronavirus
Vaccination After a COVID-19 Infection – Yes or No?
Antibodies produced after a coronavirus infection offer some protection against future illness, but extra protection never hurts.
Coronavirus
A New Symptom to Watch Out For – COVID-19 Keeps Us on Our Toes in More Ways Than One
Even without the usual symptoms like loss of smell, shortness of breath, and chest pain, you or your child could have something called “COVID toe."
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Coronavirus Variants are Here to Stay – What We Need to Know
Strains from the UK, South Africa, and Brazil are worrisome, but there's no need to panic, as long as we follow the general measures to reduce spreading of the virus.
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Team Sports to Resume on March 15, Restaurants to Reopen Outdoors on March 27
For the next opening steps, Vorarlberg will be a test region. Team sports for the young are to resume on March 15, other countrywide opening steps are envisioned for March 27.
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Us & Them – Protecting Your Pets in the Pandemic
Animals are not the problem: Although this all began with a bat in a live wet market, coronaviruses rarely jump between species. And if so, it’s mostly from us to them.
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Dating During Lockdown
The global pandemic doesn’t just affect your physical health; solitude also poses a threat to a generation in isolation.
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Bavarian Borders, Tyrolean Tantrums
Concerns over virus mutations have led Germany to close its frontier to Tyrol, setting off traffic jams on the streets and brawls among top officials. Even Brussels has chimed in.
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The Vaccines – How They Work and Why We Can Trust Them
The Austrian vaccination program for SARS-CoV-2 is slowly but surely underway, but approximately one third would currently refuse inoculation.
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CoV on Feb. 7-14 | No Further Opening Steps Expected
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened concerning COVID-19 in Austria in the week from Feb. 7-14.
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COVID Vaccine Acceptance Growing, Amid Fears and Protest
As inoculation continues, Austrians are increasingly receptive, while in Czechia and our CEE neighbors, high COVID infection rates are often accompanied by skepticism and widespread disinformation.
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CoV on Feb. 1-7 | Stricter Controls on Austrian Borders
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of Feb. 1-7, 2021.
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Austria’s Lockdown: Schools, Shops, & Services to Reopen on February 8
The country plans to reopen schools, shops, museums and services on February 8 – with stricter rules, regular testing and mandatory FFP2 masks.
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CoV on Jan. 24-31 | Federal Government to Decide Next Steps Tomorrow
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of Jan. 25-31, 2021.
Coronavirus
The AstraZeneca Vaccine Shortfall Is the Latest Setback in Europe’s Fight Against COVID-19
With the EU set to receive tens of millions fewer doses than promised, the newest delay is a huge blow to the bloc’s immunization plan.
Coronavirus
How Austria Plans to Support Its Schools & Artists
With schools in distance learning until February and cultural institutions closed perhaps through March, the government is stepping up support measures.
Coronavirus
Austria’s New COVID-19 Support Measures for Businesses
After extending the current lockdown until at least Feb. 7, the government promised additional support for businesses and workers.
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CoV on Jan. 18-24 | 1.2% of Population Vaccinated
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of Jan. 18-24, 2021.
Coronavirus
Pregnancy and COVID-19 – Greater Risks Call for Greater Care
Expectant women are particularly vulnerable to developing more severe cases of COVID-19. But it’s not all bad news.
Coronavirus
Brexit and COVID – You Can’t Get There From Here
Since mid-December, Trade, Travel and Post between Austria and United Kingdom have all been disrupted.
Coronavirus
CEE – The Coronavirus Has Revealed Central Europe’s Chaotic Governance
What remains of public trust in the state is vanishing rapidly as the coronavirus roars back into the region.
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CoV on Jan 11-17 | Lockdown Extended Until Feb. 7
The coronavirus is shaping our lives. Here’s what happened in regards to COVID-19 in Austria in the week of Jan. 11-17, 2021.
Coronavirus
Traveling to Austria in Times of Corona
Since January 15, travelers to Austria have to register online and self-quarantine. Find here all the rules, exceptions and forms you need.