Italy has further tightened its COVID-19 controls by introducing random testing at all ports of entry for anyone visiting Italy.
“In order to contain the spread of the Sars-Cov-2 virus, the Offices of Maritime, Air and Border Health and of Health Assistance to Aircrew of the Ministry of Health will carry out antigenic or molecular tests on travelers entering the national territory, on a random basis, at airports, maritime and land terminals,” reads an official decree.
Arrivals who test positive for COVID-19 and do not have a “suitable” accommodation will be required to undergo a 10-day mandatory quarantine at a government-designated hotel at their own expense.
The total costs were not announced since they are expected to be different in each region.
Along with random testing, the government has announced that outdoor public events and celebrations will be prohibited throughout the holiday season.
It also expanded the need for a “green pass” to order food at bars and restaurants, which was not needed thus far.
In the same line, the “green pass’s” validity will be reduced from nine to six months, despite the EU council’s recommendation that state members keep it at nine months.
The decree also reduces the time between receiving the last COVID-19 vaccine and receiving a booster dose from five to four months.
“The vaccine is and remains a fundamental weapon. It also gives those who encounter the virus less chance of going to hospital and of a fatal outcome,” said the minister.
The government has also reinstated the requirement to wear masks outside while FFP2 masks will soon be required on public transportation.
On Monday, Italy’s Deputy Minister of Health predicted 100,000 daily cases during the upcoming weeks, adding that a review of quarantine measures is needed, but “probably within 10 to 15 days from now.”
He emphasized that researchers need “more conclusive data” on Omicron before relaxing restrictions and that any changes will “must be based on precise scientific data.”