On the occasion of the new variants of the SARS-CoV-2 BA.4and BA.5 that have caused epidemic waves in European countries, the Ministry of Health, in view of the Holy Spirit weekend and the start of the tourist season, reminds that all citizens should continue to observe personal protection measures (distance, (distance and hand hygiene) and the use of protective masks in public places, for people belonging to vulnerable groups of the population, as well as as well as for people who interact with high-risk persons.
It is stressed that, although these variants have been identified in the Republic of Cyprus, the positivity rate remains stable in the general population at 2.74-3.5% over the last 2 weeks and the epidemiological situation remains variable.
Recall that:
- Confirmed cases of coronavirus should remain on self-limitation for at least 7 days. Earlier release can be achieved by ensuring a negative molecular PCR test by day 5. Find the instructions and release protocol here (Greek https:/bit.ly/3wq17yj, https:/bit.ly/3FJS2V3 and English https:/bit.ly/37H3V1G & https:/bit.ly/3sxbwqT).
- Close contacts of confirmed cases of coronavirus should be reported by the positive case or their employer and follow the Department of Health guidelines for self-monitoring of symptoms and free testing. Find the guidelines for close contacts here (Greek https:/bit.ly/3PgKDB5 and English https:/bit.ly/3swksfV).
- If a person develops symptoms consistent with COVID-19 disease, they should limit social contacts and contact their Personal Physician for a free PCR test.
- The use of a protective face mask is mandatory for all employees as well as for visitors 12 years and older, in the interiors of public and private hospitals, outpatient clinics, medical and diagnostic centres, nursing homes and other care and accommodation facilities for the elderly and vulnerable groups and rehabilitation centres, as well as in public transport.
The use of masks is recommended in places of coexistence, for persons belonging to vulnerable groups of the population and for persons interacting with high-risk persons.
SafePass
For evisits to nursing homes, closed structures, outpatient clinics of hospitals, medical and diagnostic centres, dispensaries, rehabilitation centres and hospitality centres:
- For persons who do not hold a valid certificate of vaccination or disease:
- For persons holding a valid certificate of vaccination or infection: No requirement
For patient visits in public and private hospitals, a rapid antigen detection test (Rapidtest) or PCR of 48-hour validity for persons over 6 years of age (2 persons per day, 1 person per visit) is required.
- It is understood that in extremely urgent cases, the number of persons and visits may be increased, subject to approval by the management of the hospital.
Contact telephone for COVID-19 matters: 22421600 (08:00-20:00) Email: contacttracing2@moh.gov.cy
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