Following the decision of the World Health Organization that COVID-19 is no longer an emergency of international public health concern, the Ministry of Health answers the most frequently asked questions of citizens, based on the new directives and relevant decrees:
Is the use of a mask mandatory?
The obligation to wear a mask has been removed from all places except for visits to places where there are vulnerable people. In particular, employees and visitors over 12 years of age in nursing homes, retirement homes and other care and accommodation facilities for the elderly and vulnerable groups must use a mask.
Has the mask requirement on public transport and in public places been abolished?
The obligation to wear a mask on public transport and in public places has been abolished. However, and given that the virus continues to circulate in our community, it is recommended that masks be worn mainly in enclosed spaces or in confusion especially by people with upper and lower respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, cough, fever, etc.
In which cases is it necessary to perform PCR or rapidtest?
Demonstration of a negative PCR or rapid test 72 hours is only necessary for persons aged 12 years and older for:
- hospital visits, nursing homes and other closed care and accommodation facilities for the elderly and vulnerable groups
- asylum seekers before entering reception or detention centres
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- new entrants to detention centres and prisons
How long must the PCR or RapidTest be for it to be considered valid?
It must have been performed within 72 hours of a visit to a site for which there is a requirement to show a certificate.
What are the maximum prices for PCRand RapidTest?
The maximum price of the PCR test is set at EUR 25 and that of the Rapid Test at EUR 5.
Is it permissible to visit a nursing home or hospital with a test performed in a pharmacy?
The result is considered valid if it was performed in a licensed clinical laboratory, pharmacy or mobile unit of the Ministry of Health and you have received a message on your mobile phone with the result.
Do I have to remain on self-limitation if I am diagnosed with covid[/B]
Mandatory self-limitation in the Republic of Cyprus for cases diagnosed positive for COVID-19 is abolished.
However, it is recommended that persons with covid-19 disease remain on self-limitation according to the instructions of their Personal Physician for at least 5 days after diagnosis and use a mask for at least 10 days if they come into contact with other persons. Because the virus can cause serious complications in some people avoid contact with people who are at increased risk of becoming seriously ill with COVID-19.
Is going to work for people with covid-19 mandatory?
It depends on the nature of the job and the clinical picture of each case. If feasible, work from home/telecommuting should be chosen. When teleworking is not possible, consult with the employer about options that can be implemented to avoid contact with other people. In all cases it is recommended to use a mask that fits comfortably on the face and has more than 1 layer (double disposable medical mask, high protection masks FFP2, N95).
How many days is the sick leave for covid-19?
It depends on your clinical picture and your medical history. It is best to consult your personal physician, who will assess the situation and grant you sick leave as he/she deems necessary.
If I don't have a Personal Physician, where do I get sick leave from?
From your treating physician after a medical assessment.
If I need hospitalization for COVID-19 can I be hospitalized in any hospital or do I have to go to a state hospital?
According to the decree published on 5/5/2023, hospitalization of COVID - 19 cases can be done in all licensed private and state hospitals. (https:/shorturl.at/hCDOT)
Am I a contact of a positive case must I get tested or stay on self-limitation?
Close contacts are not required to self-limit. However, it is recommended for all contacts to carry out sampling at their own expense on the day of notification and between the 3rd and 5th day from the date of their last contact with the case and avoid contact with vulnerable persons especially if they develop any symptoms. In case of symptoms contact their Personal Physician and repeat the examination.
If my child or a person in my care is diagnosed with covid-19 am I entitled to special leave to care for them?
No. Special leave on public health grounds has been abolished. Each carer must make the necessary arrangements as in any other case of respiratory infection.
When can I get a European recovery certificate (EUDCCrecovery)?
The European Digital Recovery Certificate, if it needs to be issued for travel or other use, is issued 7 days after a positive result via the portal(https:/www.eudcc.gov.cy/)
If I was diagnosed with covid-19 before 5/5/2023 does the mandatory self-limitation apply for 7 days?
No. The mandatory self-limitation was abolished[/B] when the relevant directives were issued on 5/5/2023. For cases diagnosed before 5/5/2023, the new Ministry of Health guidelines apply (https:/shorturl.at/gkszY).
(DK)
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