COVID-19: Cyprus To Foot Medical Bills Of Tourists Who Contract Virus While Holidaying

Officials of the island country of Cyprus have said that it hopes that after the pandemic the country can resume receiving tourists. 

It also added that it would foot the medical bill of any tourist who contracts the novel coronavirus while in the country.

This letter, signed by the ministers of tourism, foreign affairs, and transport, was forwarded to tour operators and airline companies as part of the measures the country is taking in ensuring the safety of tourists in the country.

Cyprus has a total of 939 coronavirus cases with only 17 fatalities. It proves its keenness on attracting tourists by stating that it is “committed to taking care of all travellers who test positive during their stay, as well as their families and close contacts”.

The government of the island country also said that in the event that any tourist falls ill while holidaying in the country, the government will cover the costs of dining, medical care, and accommodation.

It stated that the “traveller will only need to bear the cost of their airport transfer and repatriation flight.”

In 2019, the tourism sector contributed 15 percent to the country's GDP, earning $2.94 billion, a one percent drop from the previous year.

The country's government has also said that it plans on opening its airports on 9 June to nationals from 13 low-risk countries including Germany, Greece, Israel, Malta, and Austria.

Visitors who test positive for the virus will be housed in a 100-bed hospital that will serve only tourists, but more beds will be available “at very short notice if required”.