Rutte: Netherlands 'going into lockdown again'

The Dutch government says it is imposing a tough nationwide lockdown in an attempt to rein in sharply rising levels of infections with the omicron coronavirus mutation.

Caretaker Prime Minister Mark Rutte said schools, universities, and all non-essential stores, bars and restaurants will be closed until January 14 starting on Sunday.

Residents only will be permitted two visitors except for Christmas and New Year's, when four will be allowed. The move was unavoidable because of the fifth wave caused by the omicron variant.