[PIO] Minister of Health Dr Poppy Kanari chaired a meeting of the Scientific Monitoring Committee on Covid-19

The scientific epidemiological data in relation to the coronavirus outbreaks recorded in Cyprus in recent weeks were presented this afternoon to the Minister of Health, Dr Poppy Kanaris, by the members of the Scientific Committee for the Surveillance of Covid-19.

The meeting was attended by a representative of the OCYPY, a representative of the Directorate of Nursing Services, as well as representatives of the Unit for Epidemiological Surveillance and Control of Infectious Diseases of the Ministry of Health.

During the meeting the situation was assessed and it was reported that substrains of "Omicron 2" with the most predominant strain JN.1 are in an outbreak in the general population and not in an epidemiological wave phase. Therefore the following was decided:

1. Demonstrate a negative rapid antigen detection test for COVID-19 disease, with sampling having taken place within 48 hours, or a negative laboratory test (PCR) for COVID-19 disease, sampled within 48 hours for visits to nursing homes, hospitals, outpatient clinics, outpatient clinics, dental clinics, closed facilities and shelters for vulnerable groups, for persons over 12 years of age.
2. The use of a protective face mask is compulsory for all employees, as well as for visitors aged 12 and over, in the interiors of nursing homes and other care and hospitality facilities for the elderly and vulnerable groups, as well as in the nursing rooms, outpatient clinics, dental clinics of public and private nursing homes, closed facilities and hospitality facilities for vulnerable groups.

(The above two measures will be included in a Decree which will be submitted to the Council of Ministers tomorrow morning.)

1. The use of a protective face mask is compulsory for all positive cases in all places of circulation.
2. Vaccination of workers and residents of nursing homes and other care and accommodation facilities for the elderly and vulnerable groups through mobile vaccination units of the Ministry of Health.

(The last two refer to recommendations of the Covid-19 Scientific Monitoring Committee).

(OP/GC)

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