Starting next Thursday, people entering Italy from the European Union must present the result of a molecular test carried out within 48 hours prior to arrival, or an antigen test within the last 24 hours – such rules were introduced by the regulation of the Minister of Health Roberto Speranza. The European Commission demands an explanation from Rome.
The test procedure also applies to fully vaccinated people. In addition, the antigen test duration was reduced from 48 hours to 24 hours.
Brussels needs an explanation
Such a clear tightening of the rules for entering Italy from European countries caused concern of the European Commission. Vice-President of the European Commission Vera Zhurova, quoted by Ansa, said that when member states introduce additional conditions or tighten standards, this decision “must be justified by the real situation.”
She added that the issue is likely to be discussed at the EU summit on Thursday and Friday. “These individual rules of member states undermine people’s confidence that conditions should be the same throughout the EU,” added Zhurova.
The new rules will be in effect in Italy from Thursday to the end of January.
Expanded Vaccination Commitment
However, from Wednesday, Italy is obliged to vaccinate against COVID-19 in education, the army and the police. The government issued a decree on this matter at the end of November.
The Italian government has extended the vaccination commitment – so far only mandatory in the health care system – to the army and the police, as well as to all types of special services, including city guards and fire brigades. It is estimated that about 50,000 people have not yet been vaccinated in these sectors. In addition, school workers are required to receive the third dose of vaccine.
Failure to comply with the new rules is punishable by a fine of up to 1,500 euros for the employee and employer. Failure to vaccinate will also result in immediate suspension and loss of income prior to vaccination. However, this cannot be the reason for dismissal from work.
Italian media report that the government is considering introducing mandatory outdoor masks across the country.