Starting from July 15, keeping masks will be mandatory in indoor spaces, the Albanian Minister of Health Olgerta Manastirliu announced today.

She also said there will be penalties for offenders. According to the minister, keeping masks will be mandatory in both indoor public and non-public spaces, like in the public transportation, offices, elevators and stairs, commercial centers, businesses, and service shops.

The state and municipal police, the health inspectorate structures are ordered to fine offenders with penalties of 2 thousand Albanian Lek (€16/US$18).

“Using masks is highly efficient in stopping the spread of the virus, based also on the recommendations of WHO, European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, also proved by the experiences in most countries. The ‘sacrifice’ required from you is not the lockdown, only keeping a mask, to protect yourselves and your families”, Manastirliu said.