The Minister of Health, Dr Popi Kanari, will seek the opinions of scientists on whether to make wearing masks mandatory in some spaces due to a rise in COVID-19 cases, the Cyprus News Agency reports.
The Minister is scheduled to meet with the Scientific Monitoring Committee for COVID-19 this afternoon.
The central topic under consideration is the reintroduction of masks in elderly care facilities. This comes as most hospital admissions for COVID-19 involve the elderly, primarily from care homes.
Additionally, there is a possibility of a strong recommendation for mask usage in indoor crowded spaces.
Sources indicate that the Ministry of Health is contemplating actions such as free testing at central locations (shopping malls, supermarkets, etc.). However, any such measures will be decided after considering all opinions and recommendations.
Meanwhile, the ministry is closely monitoring data provided by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). In the afternoon meeting, actions taken by other countries will be presented for comparison.
Epidemiological data in Cyprus, as in the rest of Europe, is gradually worsening. In the week of December 21-27, 2023, 2,600 positive cases were recorded in Cyprus.
Currently, approximately 70 patients are hospitalised, with three in non-life-threatening condition in the Intensive Care Unit, mainly individuals aged 75 to 80.
According to a CNA source, positive cases are expected to rise in the coming days due to gatherings in homes and enclosed spaces during the holiday season.
The same source stated, “The meeting will examine new epidemiological data and listen to specialists’ recommendations on ways to limit the virus spread.” Decisions will be based on the presented data and ensuing recommendations.
In the event of a decision to reinstate any measures, the Ministry of Health will prepare a decree for submission to the Cabinet for approval.
