In a written response to the Lusa Agency regarding the increase in SARS-CoV-2 infections in China, the Ministry of Health confirmed that the Portuguese authorities are monitoring the epidemiological situation “in cooperation with European partners and international organisations, precisely within the scope of the activity of the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control.”
However, unlike some countries, Portugal does not expect to strengthen measures to control and mitigate the epidemic.
“At this time, according to available information, no changes in procedures or additional measures are planned, with genetic monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 continuing through the National Reference Laboratory,” the Department of Health said.
The sudden end of China’s “zero Covid” policy raises concerns in many countries, including the United States, which is studying entry restrictions for Chinese travelers, as China is currently facing the largest wave of infections in the world, amplified by the emergence of new variants.
The Chinese authorities ended most measures against COVID-19 without prior notice on December 3.
The lack of transparency regarding the number of infections, which authorities have stopped publishing daily and say is difficult to calculate because tests are no longer mandatory, is also a cause for concern.
In view of the increase in infections, the Italian government has acknowledged the possibility of making the Covid-19 test compulsory for travelers from China, a measure already implemented in the Lombardy region, where Milan’s Malpensa International Airport is located.
France also announced today that it is ready to “study all useful measures” and that it is “following the development of the situation in China very carefully”, in the face of the explosion of coronavirus cases.
Japan also announced today that it will reinstate mandatory testing for travelers from mainland China starting Friday.
The island of Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory, also announced that it would conduct checks on travelers arriving from China.
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