As mentioned in a previous Cyprus Times article, a proposal to introduce the Test to Stay measure in other sectors of the economy, such as hospitals, Police and the Fire Service are expected to be put before the Council of Ministers for approval tomorrow, Wednesday, by Health Minister Michael Hadjipandela, who is meeting with members of the Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) this afternoon.
The focus of today's discussion with epidemiologists will be the recommendation to introduce the Test to Stay measure more widely in society and specifically in hospitals and security forces.
According to information from the Cyprus News Agency, it is almost certain that the specific recommendation, which provides for continuous screening tests of workers who are close contacts of cases, will be put before the Council of Ministers on Wednesday for approval.
Meanwhile, a competent source told the Cyprus News Agency that during today's meeting with epidemiologists a recommendation will be put forward by the Ministry of Health to replace the laboratory test PCR with a rapid antigen detection test Rapid Test, if a person is intimate contact and is eligible for release on day 7.
Other minor relaxations
The same reports suggest that other minor relaxations will be approved by the Cabinet, including the lifting of the ban on dancing in entertainment venues.
Specifically, a motion is expected to be tabled today to allow people to dance in entertainment venues, even at weddings and christenings, with the Ministry not being negative about this relaxation.
In addition, a first discussion is expected to take place at today's meeting in relation to persons 18 years of age and under and their entry into eating places and entertainment venues.
More specifically, consideration is being given to allowing 18 years of age and under to enter these premises with a negative 24-hour rapid test and without the condition of being vaccinated with at least the first dose.
However, it seems that such a possibility is remote, as the Ministry of Health has reservations about this relaxation.
Furthermore, the recommendation for a 4th dose of vaccination in vulnerable groups of the population and immunosuppressed individuals is expected to be brought back on the table at today's meeting, however, for the time being the Ministry of Health does not seem to favour such a scenario.
No relaxation for unvaccinated people
It must be considered almost certain that there will not be any suggestion on the table concerning the unvaccinated, and there will be no suggestion from epidemiologists for stricter measures.
Source: CNA
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