The European Union on Wednesday urged countries to reinforce their healthcare systems and coordinate restrictions on social gatherings ahead of the Christmas holiday season, to avoid a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

Axar.az reports that after a surge of cases in October and November, many European countries have reined in infections by imposing stricter lockdowns and social restrictions.

The European Commission on Wednesday urged governments to keep up measures on physical distancing and mask-wearing over the Christmas holidays and require people to self-isolate before and after social gatherings if rules on meetings are temporarily loosened during the festive season.

This self-quarantine should be for “at least seven” days, the Commission said. Countries should consider banning mass gatherings, while there should be “clear criteria” for small events.

“We know that the sacrifices for keeping each other safe are high. But we cannot allow the risk of seeing Christmas or New Year’s celebrations becoming super-spreading events,” EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides said.