Greece to Carry Out Rapid Covid-19 Tests at Border Crossings in the North

Photo source: EODY

The Greek government has announced that it will carry out rapid tests for the coronavirus (Covid-19) at several of its border crossings. The measure is part of efforts to curb the spread of the virus in the country.

More specifically, as announced by Government Spokesperson Stelios Petsas, as of 6am on Friday, November 20, those who enter Greece through the northern border crossings of Kakavia, Evzoni and Promachonas, will undergo a rapid test for Covid-19 by the National Public Health Organization (EODY).

“Those who test negative will be able to enter the country and proceed to the destination mentioned on the PLF they have filled out,” Petsas said while speaking to the media on Thursday.

It is reminded that travelers going through Greece’s entry points are already obliged to have filled out a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) prior to their trip. They must also present a negative Covid-19 test result (PCR) performed up to 72 hours before arrival.

Greece closes Krystallopigi border crossing

Moreover, Petsas announced that the Krystallopigi entry point (the country’s land border with Albania) will be closed as of 6am on Friday, November 20, and that only trucks will be allowed to pass through the Nymfeas crossing.

The new restrictions follow data by Greece’s health authorities on Wednesday. Out of the total 3,209 new cases confirmed in Greece, 905 were identified in northern Greece.

Greek Government Spokesperson Stelios Petsas.

“Yesterday’s data of EODY revealed that positive cases in several areas of northern Greece remain at very high levels, considering that we have been in lockdown for weeks. This shows that citizens in many areas are behaving much more relaxed than the conditions demand,” Petsas said, highlighting that relaxed behavior will simply lead to a delay in the complete lifting of the lockdown.

Petsas added that authorities will step up checks on compliance by citizens and businesses with the lockdown restrictions that have been announced to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

When asked if their were thoughts to extend the lockdown, Petsas said that if the situation improves, the government will proceed according to the original plan.

Greece has been in lockdown since November 7 and movement is restricted with exceptions. Visitors to Greece can find information specifically for tourists here.