Tighter pandemic measures have come into force in Romania as authorities hoped to quell sharply rising coronavirus cases amid concerns that the next virus wave could overstretch the country’s health care system.

The new measures include the mandatory wearing of face masks in outdoor and indoor public spaces, and textile masks have been banned. Non-compliance with mask rules could result in hefty fines of up to 500 euros, authorities said.

Bars and restaurants can stay open until 10pm and operate at 50 per cent or 30pc capacity depending on the area’s infection rate, and Covid-19 passes are required. The same goes for sporting events, gyms, and cinemas. Meanwhile, quarantine and isolation periods have been reduced.