Tests for all – regardless of vaccination status – at areas deemed at high risk of Covid-19 transmission may be in the pipeline as the health ministry seeks to overhaul the SafePass.
The focus appears to be on clubs and areas such as wedding venues, where large crowds are gathered and dancing takes place – activities seen as particularly conducive to the spread of Covid-19.
The ban on dancing is set to be lifted but the specific protocols have not yet been outlined, as discussions are underway between the ministry and the entertainment sector as to how the policy can go forward.
It is understood that everyone entering such venues – regardless of their vaccination status – would have to undergo a rapid test, but there has been confusion already as to how this will be carried out.
Some have claimed that test units may be set up outside the venues to ensure that the tests carried out are indeed valid and the person’s SafePass is legitimate.
Health Minister Michalis Hadjipantela on Thursday declined to offer any details but confirmed that changes are underway, as are discussions with the entertainment industry. He said the protocols will be ready by Monday.
It is not immediately clear, for example, whether both the unvaccinated and the unvaccinated will have to pay for their Covid-19 tests or whether there will be preferential treatment as is currently the case.
Another concern from some amongst the entertainment sector is whether they will have to pay for test units to be setup near their premises, if such a proposal does go forward.
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