France to require COVID-19 pass to enter shopping malls, restaurants

France is tightening its COVID-19 restrictions in a push to get more of its citizens vaccinated.

In a televised address, French President Emmanuel Macron said that special COVID-19 passes will be required for anyone who wants to go to a restaurant, shopping mall or hospital or get on a train or plane, reported the Associated Press. To get a pass, people must have proof they are fully vaccinated or recently recovered from the virus, or have taken a recent negative COVID-19 test.

Starting July 21, people over age 12 will be required to show the pass to enter concerts, theaters and amusement parks. In August, the requirement will be extended by law to cafés, restaurants, shopping centers, hospitals and retirement homes as well as airplanes, trains and buses for long trips. 

 “The equation is simple," Macron said. "The more we vaccinate, the less space we leave this virus to circulate.”

Macron also said that workers in hospitals and retirement homes will be required to get a vaccination by Sept. 15 or face sanctions.