The EU-27 will require all passengers departing China to European Union (EU) member states to have a negative COVID-19 test performed no more than 48 hours prior to departure from the country, conduct sewage tests on aircraft and at airports and also random tests on arrival in the EU in view of the easing of travel restrictions by the Chinese government as of January 8.
This is stated in the institutional declaration of the Swedish Presidency of the Council after the meeting of the Member States on Wednesday, in the presence of the Schengen associated countries, in the framework of the integrated political response to the crises to discuss the epidemiological situation in China and the coordinated EU response to the outbreak of COVID-19 contagions.
The use of face masks on flights to and from China will also be recommended and it has been agreed to advise incoming and outgoing international travelers, as well as aircraft and airport staff, on personal hygiene and health measures.
Member States will also continue to promote the exchange of vaccines, including booster doses, particularly among the most vulnerable population groups.
This statement supports the recommendations made this Tuesday by the European Commission following the meeting of the Health Security Committee (HSC), where the possibility of pre-flight testing of travelers from China was already raised.
EU health authorities, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) will continue to monitor the epidemiological situation in the EU and developments in China, including the level of data sharing, in order to ensure EU coordination of measures deemed necessary.
For their part, Member States have agreed to assess the situation and review the measures introduced by mid-January 2023.
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
