Council of Ministers meeting this morning to discuss possible new measures

The Cabinet is meeting this morning to discuss new measures to contain the spread of the Covid pandemic.

The measures will be proposed by Health Minister Michael Hadjipantela who met with the Scientific Advisory Committee on the pandemic yesterday.

Sources have told CNA that among the measures to be discussed is the extension of school holidays until January 10 with teachers and pupils returning to schools with a negative rapid test valid for 48 hours.

Among the other suggestions discussed, was the obligation to carry out weekly rapid tests for vaccinated persons who received two doses while persons who received a booster shot are exempt.

The same sources said there will be no change in restrictions for social gatherings and the limit will remain at 20 persons.  But some advisors suggested that unvaccinated persons should obtain a 24-hour rapid test and vaccinated persons a 48-hour rapid test to be able to participate in social gatherings.

Another suggestion proposed was that youth aged 12-15 could enter certain areas where entry is permitted only for vaccinated persons, but only after presenting a negative rapid test when escorted by a parent who has already completed his/her vaccination.