Greece: Social Distancing to Save Post-Covid-19 Summer Holidays

Summer holidays in the aftermath of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic can be possible as long as vacationers keep safe distances and follow basic hygiene rules, according to infectious diseases expert Nikolaos Sipsas.

According to Sipsas, people will still be able to swim and go to the beach but keeping distances and making sure to do whatever it takes to protect themselves and others against the deadly virus will be the new “normal”, he said.

Among others, he referred to proposals being considered, including health documents, restrictions for countries with high Covid-19 infection and death rates, as well as crisis management protocols in cases of incidents at tourist destinations or accommodation facilities.

Sipsas went on to add that Greece is set to open to travelers from abroad with authorities examining ways to ensure that there will be no Covid-19 carriers entering the country. These may include on-the-spot antibody tests, “immunity passports” or health certificates.

Mass travel will not be allowed this year, and with regard to cafes, restaurants, and bars, all activity will be outdoors with relevant distancing regulation in place.

Venues for mass entertainment including night clubs and dance scenes will open to the public last.

According to a recent study, almost half of the Greeks plan to go on holiday this summer after the Covid-19 travel restrictions are lifted.

It should also be reminded that as countries begin to ease restrictions, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned against issuing “immunity passports” noting that there is no evidence at the moment of coronavirus immunity and that it may even lead to recklessness as a result of a false sense of security.