The hypermetabolism of the Omicron 2 strain and the relaxations so much needed by citizens and enjoyed for some time after the prolonged restrictions, have taken their toll.
Assessing the epidemiological picture of the country at the moment and recognising that the increase in cases is significant and has even started to translate into an increase in hospitalisations, the Minister of Health and scientists decided yesterday that for the time being the situation does not "bear" any more relaxations. The 5,286 new cases from 114,066 diagnostic tests and the 149 hospitalisations announced last night confirmed the concern and justified the "brake" put on by the experts to avoid worse.
The possibility of removing the mask outdoors is something that was also discussed yesterday during Michael Hadjipandela's meeting with the members of the Scientific Advisory Committee, but it was put on the shelf, expecting that as the weather passes and we reach spring weather conditions will become more favorable.
As decided it is not the right time for further relaxations either and it was agreed that the epidemiological picture should be reassessed in order to make decisions, in two weeks' time.
However, today, the Minister of Health is going to Cabinet with a recommendation to administer the 4th dose of the vaccine to people 70+ and some vulnerable groups. A recommendation that has been on the table for days by experts, but is being presented before the body today. A recommendation for a 3rd dose for people 12 years and above will also be put forward.
It may be recalled that the test to stay measure was implemented yesterday Monday in kindergartens, pre-primary and special schools for children three years and above, albeit on a voluntary basis. In addition, from yesterday the lifting of the ban on overnight stays outside the structure for residents in nursing homes and closed structures came into force, as well as the lifting of the ban on school trips.
Contents of this article including associated images are belongs Cyprus Times
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or Cyprus Times
Source
