Italy will close its nightclubs and make masks mandatory in some outdoor areas as the country reimposes restrictions following a spike in coronavirus cases.
New infections have more than doubled over the past week compared to three weeks ago across Italy, which was the first European country to be hit hard by the pandemic.
It is also seeing a surge in cases among younger people, with the average age of Italians contracting the virus dropping below 40, according to the latest data.
The new rules will come into force on Monday evening – two days after a national holiday that saw many young Italians go out dancing – and will run until early September.
Masks will be required between 6pm and 6am in areas close to bars and pubs and where gatherings are more likely.
“We cannot nullify the sacrifices made in past months. Our priority must be that of opening schools in September, in full safety,” health minister Roberto Speranza said in a Facebook statement.
On Saturday, Mr Speranza urged young people to be as cautious as possible, warning that “if they infect their parents and their grandparents, they risk creating real damage”.
The country’s government had kept clubs open despite mounting criticism that they attracted large crowds, social distancing was not being respected and masks were not being worn.
The industry has yearly revenues of €4 billion (around £3.6 billion), the sector’s lobby group Silb said, calling on ministers for support.
Industry minister Stefano Patuanelli conceded there would be economic damage, but said he saw no alternative.
Italy: Shops and bars reopen after two months of Coronavirus lockdown
On Sunday, 479 new cases were confirmed, down from 629 on Saturday.
Medical experts have blamed nightlife, the return of holidaymakers, and younger generations flouting social distancing rules for the recent hike in infections.
Since its outbreak came to light on February 21, Italy has recorded more than 35,000 deaths.
Testing on holidaymakers landing in Rome’s airports began on Sunday after the government said earlier in the week that people travelling from Croatia, Greece, Malta and Spain must be screened for the virus.