Cyprus tightens restrictions as virus flares

The health ministry tightened its grip on the island as it scrambles to slow down the sudden flare-up of the virus that has sent daily new cases into three-digit numbers.

The new restrictions will be solidified through a decree by the health minister to be issued later on Thursday, and will come into effect on Friday, to remain in place until November 9.

Tighter restrictions

1. Gatherings in homes and public spaces can feature up to 10 ten people per home/group, including minors.
2. Food and drink spots can serve up to 75 people indoors and 150 outdoors, with the rule requiring tables to be three square metres apart indoors and two square metres apart outdoors, regardless of the size of the premises, to remain in effect.
3. The maximum number of people per reservation/table/group at food and drink spots cannot exceed six people.
4. Church services in churches, as well as religious ceremonies, are to be performed according to the guidelines of the Holy Archdiocese of Cyprus.
5. Sports matches can take place in sports facilities in the context of sports championships, without the presence of spectators, provided that the relevant protocols are observed.
6. Indoor and outdoor cinemas and theatre performances can take place subject to a 50% cap on capacity. 
7. Cocktail parties and congratulations at weddings and baptisms are prohibited. Such events can only feature a meal or dinner, attended by a maximum of 350 people.
8. Food and beverage retail businesses (bakeries, supermarkets, mini-markets, etc.) and pharmacies can only serve people over 60 and the disabled between the hours of 8-9am.
9. Masks must be worn in all public outdoor spaces by people aged 12 and over.

Additional measures for Limassol, Paphos

In addition to the above, and due to the deterioration of the epidemiological situation in the Limassol and Paphos districts, the following additional measures will apply there:

1. Food and drink spots (restaurants, restaurants in hotels and other tourist accommodation, taverns, cafes, pizzerias, pubs, snack bars, bars, cafes, and canteens, cultural clubs, associations) can operate until 10:30pm, but these businesses can offer delivery services beyond that time.
2. The public is forbidden to be out and about after 11pm. Exceptions to these rules are movements for emergency medical reasons (to/from a pharmacy, hospital) or for work reasons, given that the necessary proof can be presented.
3. All afternoon sports and social activities for children under the age of 18 are suspended (such as football, dance, swimming, martial arts, theatre, choir, etc).
4. Sports matches in the framework of championships for athletes under 18, involving teams based in Limassol or Paphos, are suspended. For example, if a Limassol or Paphos team is playing against a Nicosia team, the match is postponed until the measures are lifted.