Italy on Monday introduced a new series of COVID-19-related restrictions for both citizens and travelers alike. Targeting those who are unvaccinated, the new rules limit access to public spaces and services, according to Schengen Visa Info News.
Access to hotels and other accommodations are now only be permitted to those who have been fully vaccinated or recovered from the COVID-19 disease, the report says. Similarly, access to public transport, including planes, trains, ships and ferries, as well as museums, exhibitions and festivals will also only be possible for those who have proof vaccination or a recovery certificate. In addition, mask-wearing is required on all public transportation.
Previously, proof of a negative COVID-19 was sufficient for access to these sites and transportation modes.
As for travel to Italy, the current entry rules remain in place: Visitors must fill out a Passenger Locator Form and present a vaccination or recovery certificate, along with a PCR or rapid antigen test that was taken before arrival in Italy. Those who are unable to present one of the two certificates will have to present a negative test and undergo a five-day quarantine requirement.
According to The Associated Press, Italy has fully vaccinated 86 percent of its 12-and-over population, and nearly 75 percent of those who are eligible have received a booster. The New York Times reports Italy is seeing over 172,000 new cases daily, a 277 percent increase in the last 14 days. Globally, there are over 2.6 million new cases daily, a 180 percent increase in the past two weeks.
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