ATHENS – Even as rabid anti-vaxxers keep spreading COVID-19 in Greece and aren’t required to be vaccinated, those who’ve gotten their shots will be given more freedoms in public gathering spots.

The pandemic is easing, with fewer cases – but more deaths – as Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has turned his attention toward speeding an economoic recovery and pulling back restrictions, except for the unvaccinated.

More European Union countries are looking to further relax measures in March, with direct flights from the United States to Athens starting March 7 to get an early jump on the tourism season.

Health Minister Thanos Plevris was to sit down Feb. 16 with the New Democracy government’s advisory panel of doctors and scientists to get their recommendations, which haven’t always been followed.

The discussion, said Kathimerini, will be about pulling back restrictions in catering and entertainment, allowing more spectators at sports facilities, and okaying conferences and school trips, unless the pandemic worsens again.

Also reportedly on the table is letting customers get up from tables in entertainment venues where they are supposed to stay seated, no word on how that was being enforced with music playing in nightclubs.

Like other public gathering spots – except for pharmacies and supermarkets – access will be limited to the fully vaccinated, those who’ve had a booster shot and presenting proof for admittance..

While the annual February Carnival won’t be allowed the panel is said to be considering allowing related events indoors, including dancing, but again still only for the fully vaccinated.