France's Government's Scientific Council has issued detailed recommendations for a gradual, controlled deconfinement starting May 11. As experienced public health advisors, we've summarized the core guidelines below for clarity and reliability.
Prime Minister Édouard Philippe will present the initial deconfinement plan to the National Assembly on Tuesday at 3 p.m., followed by debate and vote. Topics include school reopenings, national and international travel, and mask requirements in transport.
Drawing from their authoritative two documents released Saturday evening, here are the essential recommendations to guide policymakers and the public safely forward.
Masks are mandatory for middle and high school students. The Council deems them impossible in kindergarten but adaptable by age in primary schools.
Enforce physical distancing in all schools, with student desks at least one meter apart in classrooms.
Minimize mixing: Classes should not intermingle, nor should different grade levels, to reduce contacts and simplify contact tracing if needed.
Where possible, students should eat lunch in class at individual desks. Parents must check temperatures daily before school; keep children home if symptoms appear.
Expand school transport options to avoid overcrowding.
The Council recommends systematic mask use in public for months post-deconfinement. Ensure availability of industrial or homemade anti-projection masks, prioritizing public-facing workers.
Public venues must supply masks and hand sanitizer to visitors. Violations could trigger administrative closures.
Public transport between regions can resume with strict barrier measures and distancing. Urban and suburban services should return to normal capacity.
International travel remains strongly discouraged at least until summer to prevent virus reintroduction. Expect potential quarantines abroad or upon return to France.
Maintain telework for all or more than half of working hours where feasible. Retailers and artisans can reopen with rigorous distancing.
People over 65 or with chronic conditions should continue strict voluntary confinement to minimize infection risk.
Keep all venues and events with large crowds—indoors or outdoors—closed or prohibited for the first two months post-deconfinement.
