Easing of Covid-19 Restrictions in Healthcare Facilities
In a significant development for visitors to healthcare institutions, Health Minister Michael Damianos has announced a relaxation of Covid-19 protocols. Effective from Tuesday, individuals wishing to visit loved ones in hospitals and nursing homes will no longer be required to present a negative Covid-19 test prior to entry.
The decision comes after a thorough review of the current protection measures by the cabinet, signaling a move towards normalcy as the pandemic’s grip loosens. Despite the easing of testing requirements, Minister Damianos emphasized that the mandatory use of face masks within these facilities will remain in place as a precautionary measure to protect the most vulnerable.
Responding to inquiries about the current state of Covid-19 infections, Damianos provided a reassuring update. “The number of cases is ‘very low’,” he remarked, highlighting the encouraging statistics that show only a few hundred positive cases out of approximately 80,000 tests conducted. This low incidence rate has been pivotal in the cabinet’s decision-making process.
Moreover, the situation in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) has also improved significantly. Damianos noted that “the number of cases is minimal” in these critical care settings, further supporting the conclusion that extending previous stringent measures was no longer necessary.
This policy shift is expected to be warmly welcomed by families and friends who have faced barriers when attempting to visit their loved ones during the height of the pandemic. The move is also indicative of the broader public health landscape, which continues to show signs of improvement as vaccination rates rise and case numbers dwindle.
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