Cyprus ready to implement new measures as covid cases rise

"There is no complacency, and if we need to take new measures to contain the new spread of COVID, we will do so," Minister of Health Michalis Hadjipantela assured on Wednesday.

The Minister who was asked whether face masks will be made mandatory again said that there is an increase in cases not only in Cyprus but in other EU countries and in Israel as well.

He said that Cyprus has measures in place and if there is a need to take additional measures it will do so.

He also said that the situation is being assessed on a daily basis. 

Sub-variant of Omicron BA5 in the community, says scientist 

The new surge in COVID cases is due to the new sub-variant Omicron BA5 which has become rampant in the community, said Dr. Petros Karayiannis, member of the scientific advisory committee.

He urged people to take self-protection measures adding that in the last 3-4 weeks the cases due to this new sub-variant have increased to 19%, according to the figures by the contact tracing unit.

Dr. Karayiannis said that many European countries are facing an increasing number of cases, adding that the situation in Cyprus is under control. Professor Karayiannis advised the public to wear a face mask when indoors. Asked if new restrictions will be announced, he said that for the time being this is not the plan, unless hospitalizations increase.

He also called on people who have tested positive to follow the protocol and self-isolate.