Skopje, 3 May 2022 (MIA) – The Government decided on Tuesday to lift all COVID-19 restrictions, with the exception of the mask mandate in health institutions, pharmacies, public transport and retirement homes, First Deputy PM and Minister for Political System and Inter-Community Relations, Artan Grubi, said in a Facebook post. He pointed out that the Government’s decision comes after the Commission for Infectious Diseases concluded that the epidemiological situation in the country is stable. “The Government recommends practicing basic precautionary measures for personal protection against COVID-19,” said Grubi. The Commission for Infectious Diseases issued on April 27 recommendations on lifting all COVID-19 restrictions, with the exception of the mask mandate in health institutions, pharmacies, public transport and retirement homes. It urged citizens to observe personal protection and hygiene recommendations, including frequent handwashing, disinfecting and physical distancing. In addition, the Commission reiterated that vaccination remains the best and most efficient measure in protecting population health. The Commission for Infectious Diseases monitors the COVID-19 situation on a daily basis and will issue additional recommendations if needed, the Ministry of Health said last week.