Even though the Health Minister had hinted at removing all restrictions, I honestly didn‘t think it would happen now because of the continued high rate of infections in the country. In the last couple of weeks, the number of new COVID cases has broken records. We have seen numbers way higher than when the pandemic started. Yet, Icelandic Parliament, along with the Chief Epidemiologist, have decided to lift all restrictions.
Reactions to Lifting of COVID Restrictions in Iceland
In this episode, I go over how people are feeling in Iceland about this decision. There are some who are rejoicing, while there are some that are nervous. The most vocal people that are rejoicing are those in the hospitality and travel sector. It has been a rough two years for them, and they are hoping that going back to pre-pandemic life will mean a revival of their businesses.
What the Lifting of Restrictions Means for Travelers to the Country
As of now, there is no obligation to take a test when you land in the country, no quarantine or isolation is required as well. Regardless of your vaccination status, you can enter Iceland without issue. PCR tests are no longer readily available. If you need to take a COVID test, you still have the rapid test (antigen) one available.
You are also not obligated to wear masks or keep your distance from people. If you do feel sick and test positive for COVID, it is recommended that you isolate but that is not being enforced. Basically, you can enter and travel around freely in the country.
Additionally, you do not have to pre-register on covid.is nor do you need to present a vaccination certificate at the border.
Why Has Iceland Lifted All Restrictions When the Virus is still widespread?
Below is a quote from this article on RÚV English regarding Iceland has concluded lifting all restrictions:
The memo to the minister from chief epidemiologist Þórólfur Guðnason states that the rate of serious illness has not risen in line with the wide spread of the virus in society. Þórólfur believes that 80 percent of the population will have had the virus by around mid-March, and that this will be the likely threshold for good herd immunity. The massive spike in new infections has nevertheless cause significant problems for the health service; with more people being admitted to hospital, and a very large number of health workers off with the virus—thereby threatening basic services.”
Depending on how the next couple of weeks turn out, it could be that the decision to lift all restrictions still stands or that the government takes different action. We shall see.
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