15 May 2023 | 05:52 AM UTC
Israel: Authorities to remove mandatory quarantine for COVID-19 patients from May 16 /update 137
Authorities in Israel to remove mandatory quarantine for COVID-19 patients from May 16.
Event
The Israeli Ministry of Health has announced that it will remove the mandatory quarantine rule for COVID-19 patients from May 16. Authorities, however, advised COVID-19-positive individuals to isolate at home and wear a mask if in public.
Domestic Measures
Health authorities have eased domestic facemask requirements, recommending that individuals wear a facemask in all indoor settings, including in medical, healthcare, and social services facilities.
International Travel Restrictions
Foreign nationals are permitted to travel to Israel regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination or recovery status. However, Israeli authorities instruct individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19, and have not yet recovered, to refrain from boarding a flight or cruise to the country. Foreign nationals residing abroad, except those arriving from Ukraine directly or via a connecting flight, must have health insurance covering COVID-19 treatment to enter Israel.
Additionally, Israeli authorities recommend that all travelers take a PCR test after entering Israel, especially if feeling unwell within 10 days after arriving in the country. Travelers may take a COVID-19 test free of charge at health maintenance organizations (HMOs) or at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV). In general, individuals are eligible to take a PCR test upon presentation of a flight ticket or cruise ticket from the last 10 days, or confirmation of having paid to travel via a land border crossing within the last 20 days. Travelers ages 30 and older can take a PCR test without presenting one of the abovementioned documents.
For more information on regulations governing international travel to and from Israel, click here.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on disease activity.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all business appointments and 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. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.
