No plans for stricter covid measures for now

There are currently no plans for measures against the spread of COVID-19 to become stricter, a competent source has told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA).

The Health Ministry source said that during a meeting they will have on Wednesday afternoon, Health Minister Michalis Hadjipantela and the members of the Scientific Advisory Committee will discuss the next steps that will be taken in the autumn.

The Health Minister and the Committee will evaluate the current situation as has been set to combat the BA5 variation and experts will make suggestions in view of ECDC recommendations to other countries.

CNA has learned that some experts have already put forth concrete suggestions, however, the Ministry does not agree that they will resolve the problem at this phase.

The same source said that the reintroduction of the Safepass will not be discussed during the meeting, moreover, the only suggestion that the Minister and the epidemiologists will look into is the increase of rapid antigen testing units, as suggested by the Medical Services unit.

It is expected that the Health Ministry will recommend the use of protective masks outdoors, which will be announced after the meeting this afternoon.