The Ordinance amending the Ordinance on temporary suspension of the sale of goods and services to consumers in the Republic of Slovenia was adopted at the morning correspondence session of the Government. Article 2 of the basic Ordinance lists certain exceptions presented by Kacin, to which the following exceptions have been added due to the adoption of today’s amendment to the Ordinance. Thus, the ban does not apply to:

- construction, maintenance and installation works where minimal contact with consumers is ensured (e.g. heating, plumbing, drainpipes, electrical installations, ceramic tiling and other coverings, ventilation, roofing and façade works, assembly of kitchens, etc.),

- services performed outdoors during which minimal contact with consumers can be ensured (e.g. gardening services),

- service workshops where the repair and maintenance of technical goods is conducted,

- chimney-sweeping services under the condition that only one provider is present at the premises where the services are performed; if this is not possible, one service provider and one person who is the user of the small combustion appliance can be present; chimney-sweeping services are not permitted in premises where a small combustion appliance is installed if this cannot be ventilated after the service is completed,

- management companies, and

- libraries.

Today, the Government also adopted the decision that certain goods from commodity reserves, i.e. breathing ventilators, equipment for emergency oxygen supply, etc., should be used in order to manage the spread of COVID-19 infections in public health and social institutions.

Some 20 new cases were confirmed in Murska Sobota yesterday. The current 14-day incidence rate in the Pomurje region is 1,031 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, which places it in fifth place among the Slovenian statistical regions. Dr Grabar explained that 80 COVID-19 patients are in the local hospital and twelve beds in the intensive unit are occupied. Theirs is a medium-sized hospital with 400 regular beds. The crisis unit has been working without interruption since March. Over the summer, they observed the developments and implemented all preparations to be able to currently cover all the needs. The patients who are seriously ill are of various ages, including some who are middle-aged. The staff of Murska Sobota Hospital are nevertheless optimistic about the future. They believe that the virus can be limited if there is full compliance with the measures. They trust that citizens are aware that every member of the community counts.

Distress in a crisis situation is expected, but we are not accustomed to the emotions that accompany it, highlighted Masten. The days ahead will be difficult for many people. Fear and concern are always accompanied by courage. Concern protects us from being over-emboldened by courage. Fear and worries are not problematic. What counts is what we do with them. It is crucial that we find a goal that is important for us personally. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Things may be difficult, but all that we need to resolve the problem lies within us and in the people around us. We have resources to tackle these problems. Let this crisis also be an opportunity for a brighter future.