MANAMA — Authorities in Bahrain have decided to postpone the reopening of indoor dining services at restaurants and cafes for over a month until Oct. 24, 2020, in the wake of the recent spike in coronavirus infections, Bahrain News Agency reported on Thursday.

However, restaurants can continue with their outdoor dining services that were allowed early this month.

Authorities also extended the postponement of the return to in-person learning at public schools until Oct. 11, 2020.

The return of administrative, technical, and teaching staff at public schools was also postponed for a two-week period until Oct. 4, 2020. Meanwhile, teachers and educational staff are required to periodically undergo COVID-19 tests in coordination with the Ministry of Health.

The decisions were taken during a virtual meeting of the government’s executive council presided by Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa after reviewing a report submitted by the national medical task force to combat coronavirus.

The crown prince recognized the value of maintaining a robust public health response that includes all members of society as the virus continues to transcend race, ethnicity and religious affiliation.

Prince Salman emphasized that citizens and residents must all commit for Bahrain with determination over the next 2 weeks until the 1st of October so that the community can, together, mitigate the spread of the virus.

He expressed his sincere appreciation for the dedicated efforts of first responders and thanked citizens and residents who remain committed to following precautionary health measures.