14 Dec 2020 | 03:51 PM UTC
Cyprus: COVID-19 restrictions remain in place as of Dec. 14 amid increase in case numbers /update 23
Cyprus maintaining COVID-19-related measures as of Dec. 14 following rise in infection rates; localized disruptions likely.
Event
Authorities are maintaining international entry restrictions as of Dec. 14 as part of measures to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Authorities have divided countries into three categories. Travelers from countries in Category A do not need to present a negative COVID-19 test result upon arrival. Travelers who have visited a Category B country in the previous 14 days require a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before their departure for Cyprus; some arrivals, including Cypriot citizens, residents, and family members, can also take a test on arrival but must self-isolate until the result is confirmed. Travelers who have visited a Category C country within the previous 14 days have the same testing requirements, though they must also self-isolate for 14 days on arrival. Countries within the three categories as of Dec. 14 are as follows:
Category A: Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand, and Singapore
Category B: China (including Hong Kong), Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Rwanda, San Marino, Serbia, Sweden, the UK, Uruguay, and Vatican City
Category C: All other countries
Domestic restrictions were further tightened Dec. 11 due to rising COVID-19 cases. The following restrictions will remain in place until at least Dec. 31:
A 2100-0500 curfew will be in place, with the exception of persons seeking emergency medical help, as well as essential workers.
Restaurants, cafes, and bars can offer takeaway services only.
Social gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
Religious services must be held without congregations. Weddings and funerals are permitted with a maximum of 10 people in attendance.
Most nonessential businesses must close, though larger department stores can operate in accordance with strict with sanitization and social-distancing protocols in place.
Facemasks are mandatory in all outdoor public spaces, except while exercising, in addition to all indoor public spaces.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.
Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.
