Filenews 11 January 2023
The recommendations submitted by the members of the committee after evaluating the epidemiological picture recorded in Cyprus, as well as the recommendations of the European Commission, regarding the epidemiological picture recorded in China, were presented at today's meeting of the Council of Ministers by the Minister of Health, Michalis Hatzipantelas.
Taking into account the above, the Council of Ministers decided:
a) from 15 January 2023 (at 5 a.m.) as required to show a negative molecular test (PCR) by all passengers arriving in Cyprus from China, 48 hours before their departure (direct flight or connecting flight).
b) the use of a protective mask and the observance of personal hygiene and protection measures are recommended on all flights to and from Cyprus, as well as in crowded areas (indoors).
c) the carrying out of analyses of wastewater from airports and aeroplanes by a company that will undertake the collection and analysis, following a tender to be announced by the Ministry of Health.
(d) the extension of all existing measures until and including 15 March 2023.
(e) the continued delivery of in vitro diagnostic medical devices and COVID-19 vaccines, subject to a zero VAT rate.
The Council of Ministers also decided:
a) the central management of the beds of the Intensive Care Units (ICU) of public and private Hospitals contracted with the Health Insurance Organization at the level of the Administration of the Ministry of Health, including the maintenance of a special electronic recording platform,
(b) the authorisation of the Minister for Health to appoint an Ad Hoc four-member committee, consisting of
- Director of Medical and Public Health Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Health
- Dr. George Mina, Intensivist, Private Hospitals
- Dr. Andri Papastylianou, Intensivist, State Health Services Organization SHSO
- Dr. Monika Kyriacou, Senior Officer, HIO Health Insurance Organization
(c) the authorization of the Minister of Health to determine the terms of reference of the Ad Hoc ICU Management Committee, which will concern the monitoring, distribution, movement between hospitals and duration of stay of cases in ICU beds.
