Austria steps up checks as new virus rules take effect

Austrian authorities said they are stepping up police checks to enforce new rules under which unvaccinated people who haven't had COVID-19 are barred from restaurants, hotels, hairdressing salons and large public events. The rules, which were announced on Friday night, took effect on Monday across the country of 8.9 million people.

During that time, anyone who has received one vaccine dose and has a negative PCR test will be allowed to attend events and enter the listed locations and events.  The government moves a four-week transition period to encourage the unvaccinated to get shots. About 65% of Austria's population is fully vaccinated.