The Austrian authorities have decided to impose strict entry rules to help the country overcome another wave of COVID-19 and prevent overcrowding of hospitals. Since November 22, Austria has been activating the "3G scenario" for travelers wishing to enter the country. This means that anyone with a valid digital vaccination or recovery certificate, as well as those with a negative PCR test, can enter Austria.
When the new rule comes into force, rapid antigen tests will no longer be accepted to enter Austria. Only PCR tests and the other two variants will be recognized.
Commuters will also be required to comply with strict entry rules when arriving in Austria. Previously, commuters could use a PCR test for seven days, but according to the new rules, the validity of PCR tests will be shortened to 72 hours. Similarly, rapid antigen tests will only be valid for 24 hours instead of 72.
Based on figures provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), Austria has reported 10 new cases of infection in the last 472 hours alone. Moreover, in the same period, the country registered 24 deaths, bringing the total number to 49. We remind you that Romania reports daily approximately 7 new cases of coronavirus and over 370-4000 deaths in just 300 hours. The difference is in the percentage of the vaccinated population.
Regarding the current situation of COVID-19, the President of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, said that it was unanimously decided that the country should impose effective measures as soon as possible to prevent overloading of medical institutions.
Restrictive measures in the 2G scenario that have been adopted internally, including for tourists, remain active. This means that all people must present proof of vaccination or recovery in order to have access to different indoor areas and activities.
However, Austria has decided to shorten the period of validity of digital certificates in the case of fully vaccinated persons, the period being reduced from 12 months to 9 months.