COVID-19: Government encourages a return to vigilance

While the increase in infections is better contained in Monaco than in neighbouring regions, the figures show a resurgence in the COVID-19 epidemic.

In the Principality, the incidence rate, or the number of positive tests per 100,000 people over the past seven days, was 748 on 3 July 2022, compared with 148 a month ago.

As the summer holidays approach, a time when people travel and engage in lots of social interactions, the Prince’s Government is issuing a reminder of the measures to take in order to protect yourself and others, given that the variants of the COVID-19 virus which are currently circulating are highly contagious.

Vaccination

The health authorities strongly urge people aged over 60 and those with an increased risk of serious disease to get a second vaccine booster shot (fourth dose). Vaccination is voluntary and completely free of charge. Simply make an appointment at the National Vaccination Centre on +377 92 05 55 00.

The Government has made two types of vaccine available to willing patients: a messenger RNA vaccine (Pfizer) and a vaccine which contains no messenger RNA (Novavax).

Masks

In addition to vaccination, the wearing of masks in busy places and on public transport is strongly recommended, especially for vulnerable people. Similarly, if you have any doubts following the emergence of symptoms or contact with people who have tested positive, it is vital to get a test and isolate to break chains of infection.

Barrier measures

Finally, it is vital to avoid risky situations and comply with some simple barrier measures:

· wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser

· avoid touching your face

· greet people without shaking hands, hugging or kissing

· cough or sneeze into your elbow or a single-use tissue

· blow your nose with single-use tissues

· ventilate rooms as often as possible

These simple actions can be very effective in limiting the spread of the virus and protecting the most vulnerable.

For more information on COVID-19 and the health situation, please visit www.covid19.mc