The Netherlands has reactivated the wearing of face masks in public places following a sharp rise in Covid cases. Coronavirus cases have risen in the past month after the government relaxed most social distancing measures in September, reaching their highest total since July.

Masks are required at shops and other public facilities and people are being advised to work from home where possible.

Covid cases were up 39 percent over the previous week and hospitalisations were up nearly one-third.

Prime Minister Mark Rutte to urged everyone to follow guidance and to stay at home if they have symptoms.

“Our own behaviour is crucial, a very large part of our coronavirus policy depends on it,” the PM said.

“It won’t surprise anyone that we have a difficult message. Infections and hospital admissions are rising quickly,”

The use of the country’s ‘corona pass’ which is used by Dutch residents to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or a recent negative test, is reportedly to be extended this week to more public places including museums, gyms and theme parks.

Rutte also said that the government is deciding to expand the use of the corona pass for workplaces.

The Netherlands is one of the first countries in western Europe to re-impose curbs to this extent, which also includes the reintroducing of 1.5-metre social distancing.

The government said booster shots for the over-60s would be rolled out soon.

About 84% of the adult population has been vaccinated.