To combat a new Covid variant, Switzerland imposes entry restrictions
As a result of discovering a new variant of the Covid-19 virus, Switzerland has blocked direct flights from southern Africa and restricted entry from other countries. In addition, the first possible case of the Omicron variant in Switzerland is also reported. Switzerland imposes entry restrictions
Due to its higher mutation rate than other variants, the Omicron (previously known as B.1.1.529) variant is causing alarm worldwide.
Switzerland reported the first probable case of the Omicron variant late on Sunday evening. An individual returned to Switzerland around a week ago from South Africa affected by the outbreak, the Federal Office for Public Health reported on Twitter. Switzerland imposes entry restrictions
Following the spread of the Omicron variant to other countries, the Swiss authorities acted swiftly. The updated list of Countries from which all passengers must present negative PCR tests and reside in quarantine for 10 days after arrival can be found here.
Currently, the Swiss government has banned all direct flights from southern Africa, as of statement. In addition, for entry from South Africa, Hong Kong, Israel, and Belgium, all individuals must also have a negative Covid-19 test as of November 26, 2021, at 8 pm and must be quarantined for ten days.
Until further notice, all flights from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa are prohibited. However, citizens and residents of Switzerland from these countries can return home with special permits.
