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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
World
Katie Williams

Holiday makers issued warning as Portugal enforces tighter Covid restrictions

As the Omicron variant spreads across Europe, countries are tightening their Covid travel rules and regulations.

In an attempt to curb a major spike over Christmas, Portugal have issued new restrictions that could impact Scots who wanted to enjoy some winter sun.

Portugal has one of world's highest rates of vaccination against COVID-19.

Around 87 percent of its 10 million population have been fully vaccinated but they are now seeing a surge in cases as Omicron presents new challenges.

READ MORE- Edinburgh's King's and Festival Theatre forced to cancel panto and The Nutcracker

To try and control the spread around Christmas, Portugal has ordered bars and nightclubs to close from Saturday for two weeks.

Officials have also told people to work from home.

Reuters reports that Portugal's Prime Minister Antonio Costa said: "This still isn't the normal Christmas we are used to."

"If we do not adopt these measures now, the consequences on everyone's lives will be much worse after Christmas and the New Year."

For travellers wanting to stay in hotels, go to events, restaurants, casinos or parties in public spaces, a negative Covid test will need to be provided.

There will also be a limit of how many people can be in shops at the same time and authorities will also limit outdoor gathering to just 10 people on New Year's Eve.

The national health institute issued a report on Tuesday stating that 50 percent of the new Covid infection are the Omicron variant.

There were 5,754 new infections reported on Tuesday December 21 in Scotland.

Portugal entry requirements

For those wishing to travel to Portugal, the nation have enforced a range of requirements for UK travellers.

Travellers must do the following.

  • Complete an online passenger locator card
  • Show a negative Covid-19 test result (expect children aged 11 or under)
  • PCR tests must be completed within 72 hours of departure
  • Antigen tests must be completed within 48 hours of departure and must be carried out by trained healthcare professionals

You will be subject to health screening on arrival. If your temperature is 38ºC or over or you show signs of being unwell, you may be required to take a COVID-19 test and remain at the airport until you receive your test result.

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