Greece Tightens Covid-19 Testing at Promachonas Border Point

Greek National Public Health Organization’s (EODY) crew is conducting COVID-19 tests to travelers at the Promahonas checkpoint. Photo Source: @EODY

Greece announced that it would be increasing testing at the Promachonas border check point following a spike in Covid-19 cases after thousands of tourists entered the country last week, when Greece opened its borders after months of lockdowns.

According to the National Public Health Organization (EODY), of the 43 new coronavirus cases reported on Monday, 36 were found among incoming visitors after screening.

The decision, aimed at containing the spread of the deadly virus, applies to all travelers entering Greece through the Promachonas border point regardless of country of origin.

Authorities said they were now conducting tests on 90 percent of incoming visitors.

“There have been imported cases, but the situation is under control,” said Government Spokesman Stelios Petsas, adding that of the 31,169 tests carried out in the July 1-6 period, 100 were positive, corresponding to 0.3 percent of incoming visitors.

Petsas said health authorities were monitoring the situation particularly at the border due to the resurgence of the pandemic in Balkan countries.

He reiterated that the government was “monitoring, assessing, and adjusting” its action plan and was ready should the need arise to impose bans on high risk countries.

It should be reminded that all travelers are required by law to fill in the  mandatory PLF (Passenger Locator Form) 24 hours ahead of travel. Based on the risk assessment targeted testing is carried out.

Meanwhile, authorities expect traffic to increase on the border as thousands of incoming visitors mainly from Balkan countries come to Greece for their holidays by road.

More than 66,000 travelers entered Greece through Promachonas – the only border point open to travelers – last weekend.

Authorities remind that due to increased safety measures and testing in addition to passport controls, travelers should expect longer delays.