Over the past 24 hours 891 new coronavirus cases have been reported in Slovenia, which is over 340 fewer cases than on Wednesday, the government said, noting that as of Monday it would again allow bars and restaurants to open outdoors.

There are currently 642 Covid-19 patients in hospitals, including 150 in intensive care. The seven-day average of new infections in one day has dropped to 931, the government said. There have also been seven Covid-19-related fatalities in the past 24 hours, which puts the total death toll to date at 4,142.

So far, 351,020 people have been vaccinated (16.7%), of which 126,764 with both doses. Owing to the epidemiological situation having improved after an 11-day lockdown, which ended on Sunday, the government has allowed bars and restaurants in about two thirds of the country to reopen.

The decision takes effect on Monday and will be in force at least until 25 April.

Hospitality establishments will be able to serve food and drinks on terraces from 7 am to 7 pm, complying with epidemiological restrictions, including a 1.5-metre physical distance between tables.

Sector representatives are not satisfied with this solution and believe that the hospitality sector, hit hardest by the pandemic, should be allowed to fully reopen.