Greece has experienced a significant rise in COVID-19 infection in August. On Tuesday, August 11, it reported 4,181 new cases, the third-highest daily incidence from the beginning of the pandemic.
On the same day, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection of Greece also imposed a nighttime curfew on Heraklion, the second largest and one of the most visited cities in the country.
The number of new infections declined a bit in September. However, the country now seems to be going through another wave of the pandemic.
Up to date, Greece still stays on CDC’s ‘very high level of COVID-19’ list – red. Therefore, you should reconsider traveling to Greece in the next few weeks.
How safe is to visit Greece now: Latest updates
October 21 – COVID-19 cases again on the rise in Greece
After a drop in coronavirus cases in September, Greece has once again registered a rise in daily new COVID-19 infections.
On Tuesday, October 19, Greece confirmed a recent high of 3,739 new cases. 12 of them were recorded at entry points to the country. There were also 29 COVID-related deaths reported on that day, which brought the total death toll to 15,447.
356 coronavirus patients were on ventilators in the hospital, and their average age was 66. Greek Health Minister Thanos Plevris pointed out that around 90% of ICU beds were occupied with unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated patients.
He strongly recommended everyone to get vaccinated, especially those over 60, and emphasized that, for now, vaccination remains the only viable strategy against the disease.
Source: Greek Reporter
September 9 – Greece to start administering booster shots in mid-September
According to an official announcement from Monday, September 6, Greece will start administering a third shot of the coronavirus vaccine to vulnerable citizens in mid-September.
The booking platform for this particular group will open on September 14, and 285,000 people with a weak immune system should be able to get their third dose in the near future.
Booster shots will also be administered to nursing home residents and over-60-year-olds. Professionals who are often exposed to the virus and patients with chronic illnesses will follow.
Source: Ekathimerini
Stats & Current COVID-19 situation in Greece
To date, Greece has registered over 700,000 COVID-19 cases, 15,519 of which were mortal.
At the moment, there are 30,856 active cases and around 2,786 new infections daily.
Masks are required in all indoor areas. Restaurants and bars are open. But if you wish to be seated indoors, you must present proof of vaccination or recovery. There are also capacity limitations and restrictions on the size of gatherings.
Vaccination progress in Greece
So far, Greece has administered more than 12.5 million doses. Around 59% of the population has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. While at least 61.3% of the population has received at least one dose.
Requirements to enter Greece
Greece allows all E.U. and Schengen Area citizens without quarantine. Travelers from low-risk countries are also welcome. However, all visitors must present a negative COVID-19 test, proof of recovery, or proof of vaccination upon arrival.
COVID-19 hotspots in Greece
Why travel to Greece during COVID?
The increasing number of infections and the present Delta variant of the virus are two good reasons not to visit Greece this summer. Yet, there are some spots where you should stay safe even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
1. Kastellorizo
Set on the easternmost edge of Greece, Kastellorizo (also called Megisti) is one of the tiniest islands of the Dodecanese complex. The entire population of the island has been vaccinated since January. And so, Kastellorizo is one of the safest islands in the whole country.
2. Meganisi
Meganisi belongs to the less-visited islands in Greece, which makes it a perfect holiday destination for the pandemic season. You can expect rocky shores, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxing atmosphere. On top of that, all inhabitants of the island have been fully vaccinated.
3. Anafi
Last but not least, you can also consider a trip to Anafi. Even though it’s set near the famous Santorini, this quaint island is untouched by mass tourism. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for free beach camping, hiking, and an authentic Mediterranean experience. And, of course, safety.
Updates archives
August 25 – Greece to impose restrictions on those not vaccinated
The Greek government has announced that unvaccinated people will be banned from all indoor restaurants, bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
The regulations should be in place from September 13 to March 31. Those who have recovered from the virus will be allowed to enter the establishments.
The same will apply to both indoor and outdoor sports stadiums. Other venues, such as museums, theaters, or galleries, will require a negative COVID-19 test from unvaccinated visitors.
The new restrictions will affect workers, too. Inoculated residents will be provided free testing, while unvaccinated public and private workers will have to undergo weekly testing at their own expense.
Source: The Guardian
The post Is It SAFE To Travel To GREECE Right Now during COVID in 2021? appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.
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By: Daniela Kaňková
Title: Is It SAFE To Travel To GREECE Right Now during COVID in 2021?
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/is-it-safe-to-travel-to-greece-right-now/
Published Date: Sat, 23 Oct 2021 11:59:00 +0000
