In a series of crucial COVID-19 related announcements, French PM Jean Castex said on Thursday that a month-long limited lockdown for Paris, and other regions amid a surge in COVID-19 cases. 

The French PM said during a press conference, “We are adopting a third way, a way that should allow braking (of the epidemic) without locking (people) up.” He insisted that the measures will not be as strict as in the past lockdowns, reported AFP.

Also Read: French PM Jean Castex pledges to get AstraZeneca shot ‘very quickly’ if approved

Movement outside is to be restricted in the affected areas and non-essential businesses will be closed. However, schools will remain open and outdoor exercises are allowed up to a distance of 6 miles(10 km) from home, Castex said. 

Also Read: ‘EU statement encouraging’: France, Italy on AstraZeneca controversy

Following the EU regulator’s announcement saying that the AstraZeneca vaccine was “safe and effective,” Castex also said that France would resume the use of the vaccine by Friday afternoon. 

Jean Castex told the reporters, “I will get myself vaccinated with this vaccine to show that we can have complete confidence in it.”