ICT Spring Postponed, Health Ministry Warns against Large Events amid Coronavirus Fears

On Monday evening, Luxembourg's Ministry of Health issued a statement recommending that large events be postponed or cancelled in an attempt to containi the spread of coronavirus.

The recommendation forms part of additional measures taken on behalf of the authorities to further limit the spread of coronavirus in Luxembourg. Such measures have taken into account the evolution of the spread of the virus in Luxembourg's bordering regions, the measures implemented in other European countries, particularly neighbouring countries, and the evolution of cases of infection diagnosed in Luxembourg. Indeed, Luxembourg's authorities have recognised that containment measures alone are not sufficient to stop the spread of the virus.

Since public gatherings promote the transmission of this virus, the Health Ministry has warned against organising events which bring together more than 1,000 people in a confined environment simultaneously. This recommendation forms part of efforts to protect the public health of the population by preventing the spread of coronavirus and by reducing the potential multiplication of transmission chains in the presence of events where participants are often very close to each other. In addition, events of this scope are often aimed at an international audience. In such a situation, the traceability of contacts is difficult, if not impossible.

The normal activity of schools, shops, businesses, public transport, shopping centres, restaurants and bars remain unaffected by this recommendation.

A number of events have already been postponed or cancelled in Luxembourg over coronavirus fears. Most recently, Farvest announced the postponement of ICT Spring, an international tech gathering originally scheduled for 12-13 May, to 7-8 July 2020. 

Commenting on this decision, Farvest CEO Kamel Amroune said: "The wellbeing of our clients and participants is our priority. Each year, we welcome professionals from all around the world to promote Luxembourg and inspire our ever-growing community. We are compelled to postpone the event to make sure everybody can join in safe healthy conditions".