Greece scraps mandatory COVID-19 test for infected tourists

Monday, July 18, 2022

The Greek authorities have updated rules for tourists infected with COVID-19, including mandatory isolation. Last week, Greek government officials decided to remove quarantine rooms at hotels, meaning travellers who become infected with coronavirus will not have to follow self-isolation rules.

In addition, Greece’s current rule, which requires those with Covid-19 to isolate for a five-day period, does not apply to tourists. Those who contract the virus can decide if they want to stay in quarantine for the length of their stay but will not be required to do so.

The travellers with Covid-19 will still be able to access public transport from Greece, including ferries and planes. However, they must wear an FFP2 or KN95 face mask throughout the journey.

In May, Greece lifted all coronavirus travel rules, meaning all travellers, regardless of country of origin, can enter the country restriction free. But as cases have spiked in recent weeks, officials may call for the return of face masks for everyone in indoor public settings.

The recent spike in cases is most likely explained by a boost in tourism, paired with relaxed restrictions. Earlier this month, the Greek Minister of Tourism Vasilis Kikilias reported that popular tourist destinations, including Mykonos and Rhodes, have seen a 29 per cent rise in tourist visitors compared to 2019.

Other EU nations which have seen a rise in Covid-19 cases include France, Spain and Germany. Recently, Cyprus reintroduced some face mask rules to combat rising infections.

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