OREANDA-NEWS. International cooperation has an important role to play in preventing the second wave of coronavirus spread. This was stated in an exclusive interview with Russian media correspondent Federal Chancellor of Austria Sebastian Kurtz.

According to the head of the Austrian government, coronavirus and its phenomena such as wearing protective masks and social distance will for a long time determine the life of society. “At least until a vaccine is found. We need to learn how to live with this new normality”, said Kurtz. “International cooperation will be crucial to prevent a second wave of infection”.

Since mid-April, Austria has become a pioneer in the EU to gradually ease the restrictions imposed due to the pandemic. Since May 1, the regime of strict self-isolation of the population is canceled here, when leaving the house was possible only in case of emergency, to the store, for urgent work or a walk. To comply with sanitary measures, the population was obliged to wear protective masks in shops and vehicles, as well as to keep a distance of 1 m from others in public places.