Covid-19 Crisis Updates

Information Sources: The most reliable sources of information that I use and often quote on this page are Greek Travel Pages, eKathimerini, Destination Greece, Aegean Air,  and of course, Hydra's news service Fonitis Ydras.

UPDATED 3 MARCH 2022

Please note that it is still MANDATORY for everyone to wear a mask both INDOORS and OUTDOORS at all times. The only exception to this rule is if you are seated at a cafe or restaurant.

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS CURRENTLY IN FORCE:

For the protection of passengers and citizens from COVID-19, the following rules are in place until 6:00 a.m., March 7th 2022:

It is mandatory to wear either a double face mask (a cloth mask and a surgical mask) or a high filtration face mask when using the public transport means, intercity coaches, or the city tour bus service (whether open top or not) This includes Hydra's dolphins, cats, Metochi ferry and water taxis. A fine is payable for not wearing one.
Taxis are allowed to carry up to three (3) passengers in addition to the driver, except when carrying family members. Wearing a mask is obligatory.

 Flight passengers must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) any time before their flight departure for Greece.

The residents of European Union & Schengen Area countries, San Marino, Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Vatican City, North Macedonia, Georgia, Switzerland, El Salvador, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Israel, Liechtenstein, Lebanon, Morocco, Montenegro, Moldova, Monaco, Norway, New Zealand, Ukraine, Uruguay, Panama, Cape Verde, Serbia, Singapore, Thailand, Tonga, Turkey, Tunesia, Faroe Islands, and Chinese Taipei, who are in possession of the European Union Digital Covid Certificate (EUDCC), may visit Greece for pleasure. EUDCC holders must provide information on their status in the form of:

•   a Covid-19 vaccination certificate valid up to nine (9) months for those who have had their first and second dose (depending on the vaccine) and indefinitely for those who have had the booster shot as well, or
•   a Covid-19 recovery certificate, valid up to six (6) months, or
•   a negative result to a molecular PCR test for Covid-19 taken within seventy-two (72) hours or to a rapid (antigen) test done within twenty-four (24) hours before their arrival.

Travellers from Australia, the USA and Canada must present either a certificate of vaccination or recovery, or a negative result to a Covid-19 test, as described above.

Irrespective of their vaccination status, travellers from countries not mentioned above must show one of the following documents:

•   a negative result to a molecular PCR test for Covid-19, taken within seventy-two (72) hours before their entry in Greece, or
•   a negative result to a rapid (antigen) test done within twenty-four (24) hours before their arrival.

The certificates must be issued by an accredited testing laboratory in the English language.
 

Flight passengers will be subject to random testing (PCR or rapid test) as per the procedure described in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF). If a traveller tests positive, then they will have to quarantine for five (5) days. After that period, the quarantine will be lifted provided that there are either no more symptoms or the symptoms are significantly relieved, and their body temperature has been reduced to normal for the last 24 hours without the use of medication. Should the passenger continue to run a fever after the fifth day, then they remain in isolation until the body temperature is normal again. Isolated travellers will have to show a negative result to a molecular PCR test on the last day of their quarantine, in order for the quarantine to be lifted. 

The above prerequisites for entering Greece also apply to children aged five (5) and older. (PLEASE NOTE THAT IN GREECE A 4-YEAR-OLD CHILD IS CONSIDERED TO BE 5 BECAUSE THEY ARE IN THEIR FIFTH YEAR!)

The Following is in force until  MARCH 8 2022

ACCOMMODATION
For the accommodation of guests in tourist establishments across the country, any one of the following documents must be shown, upon arrival:

• a certificate of vaccination against Covid-19, issued by their country's national authority (also) in the English language, on the condition that a fourteen (14) day period has elapsed since these visitors were fully vaccinated;
• a certificate of recovery from COVID-19, issued by a national authority / an accredited testing laboratory (also) in the English language. The certificate can be issued thirty (30) days after the first positive test result and it is valid for three (3) months after that test.
  
• a negative result to a molecular PCR test for Covid-19, taken within 72 hrs before their arrival, or a negative rapid test taken within 48 hrs before, issued by an accredited testing laboratory (also) in the English language.

Minors from 4-17 years old, who are not in possession of any of the above documents must show a negative self-test done up to 24 hours before, stating their self-test result on the following pdf, which can be downloaded here.

DINING OUT

• Customers are accepted in the indoor spaces of restaurants, cafés, nightclubs, bars, pubs, boîtes etc. by showing their Covid-19 vaccination certificate or recovery certificate (valid up to 3 months after illness), with an identity check.  Minors from 4-17 years old, who are not in possession of any of the above documents must show a negative self-test done up to 24 hours before, stating their self-test result on the following pdf, which can be downloaded here.
• In the outdoor spaces of the above establishments, customers have to show either a certificate of vaccination or recovery (valid up to 3 months after illness), or a negative PCR test done up to 72 hours before entering or a negative rapid test taken up to 48 hours before, with an identity check. Minors from 4-17 years old who are not in possession of any of the above documents can enter the premises by showing a negative self-test as described above.
• The use of masks is mandatory for customers waiting for a table or making their way into the premises, and strongly recommended for those already seated.

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

Archaeological sites are open throughout the country. Visitors over 18 years of age are required to show a certificate of vaccination or illness (up to 3 months after illness) or a negative PCR test done up to 72 hours before entering or a rapid test taken up to 48 hours before their visit, with identity check. Minors from 4-17 years old, who are not in possession of any of the above documents, must show a negative self-test done up to 24 hours before, stating their self-test result on the following pdf, which can be downloaded here. Visitors can enter in groups of up to twenty (20) people (unless they are families), while during their stay they must wear a mask and observe the prescribed distances. In case of a group with a guide, the number increases to up to 40 people, provided that visitors show any one of the documents required for entrance, as described above.

All museums and monuments in indoor spaces throughout the country are open to the public and operate in compliance with sanitary measures (distances between attendees, use of a mask, etc.). Visits of groups of up to 20 people are allowed, unless they are families. Visitors aged 18 or over enter with the presentation of a certificate of vaccination or disease (up to 3 months after illness), with identity check, while minors from 4 to 17 years old - if not in possession of any of the above documents - can submit a self-test, done as described above.

UPDATED 28 JANUARY 2022

Partial lifting of measures from Monday from 31st January 2022

No time limit and with music allowed in restaurants & entertainment venues

All must continue to be seated and everyone entering must show a valid vaccination certificate.

From the 7th February 2022, Vaccination Certificates are only considered valid if 7 months or less since last booster. Anyone with more than 7 months since booster will be considered unvaccinated.

The following restrictions remain in force:

• The mask is mandatory in all indoor and outdoor areas.
• In public transport, food shops, supermarkets, etc., a double mask or the high protection mask (FFP2/KN95) is mandatory. (Single layer fabric masks are not acceptable fines may be imposed if used in shops.)
• Visitors entering Greece, in addition to the already mandatory PCR 72 or Rapid 24 hours will be required to repeat the test on the 2nd and 4th day after entering the country.
• Self-testing is strongly recommended before and after any social event.
  

UPDATED 30 DECEMBER 2021

Measures in place until 06:00 on 17th January 2022

• Everyone must show a valid vaccination certificate to enter shops, sit at cafes, enter restaurants, etc. The only exception is to enter food shops. QR must be recorded by venue staff. If requested to show your certificate by the police, you must also show your ID or passport.
• The mask is mandatory in all indoor and outdoor areas.
• In public transport, food shops, supermarkets, etc., a double mask or the high protection mask (FFP2/KN95) is mandatory. (Single layer fabric masks are not acceptable fines may be imposed if used in shops.)
• All public recreational Christmas and holiday celebrations planned by the municipalities are cancelled.
• Visitors entering Greece, in addition to the already mandatory PCR 72 or Rapid 24 hours will be required to repeat the test on the 2nd and 4th day after entering the country.
• Self-testing is strongly recommended before and after any social event.
• Entertainment, restaurants, cafe, dining areas may open until 00:00 midnight, with a maximum of six people per table.
• Only for New Year's Eve 31st of December 2021, restaurants may stay open until 02:00 in the morning of 1st of January 2022.
• Standing customers are not be allowed and music is banned in all venues

Please note that there have been multiple deaths in the community this winter as a direct result of Covid. The virus is active on Hydra. There is an alarming number of island families currently in locked-down self-isolation. Anyone who has not had their booster or still hasn't been vaccinated is strongly recommended to make an appointment ASAP. 

UPDATED 22 September, 2021

On the 15 May 2021, Hydra was thrilled to be fully open and able to welcome visitors with only moderate restrictions. After a slow start, until the middle of June, I can report that the island has had a record season that has been busier than 2019. Most of Hydra's business owners, managers and workers have been stunned by the record-breaking number of visitors! Everyone on Hydra has been working flat out this season in spite of the difficulties of not having enough staff and all the restrictions. September arriving has been a relief in many ways although everyone is emphasising how much they appreciated the business!

As of the 13 September, Greece and therefore Hydra has been delighted to welcome tourists, with minimal travel restrictions imposed to contain the spread of Covid-19 and has put in place safety protocols to allow you to plan your holiday with greater freedom and safety.

Visitors from the European Union, Schengen Area, UK, USA and a selection of other countries do not need to quarantine on arrival. And travel is open to all Greek islands and around the mainland. Hotels are open, operating with strict government-imposed safety protocols, as are archaeological sites & museums (with reduced capacity). 

However, it should be noted that most flight carriers still require you to show a negative 72hr PCR test before flying into the country.

During the summer high season, 6 positive cases were registered in the vaccinated work force of Hydra. None of them had serious symptoms and in all likelihood if it weren't for the mandatory self-testing, the 6 cases probably wouldn't have realised that they'd become infected! Symptoms such as fatigue and overheating were easily dismissed because the island was so incredibly busy and the outrageous prolonged heat wave sent everyone's temperature soaring!

There have been some deaths on Hydra this summer that can be attributed to Covid sadly these have been older people who have fragile health and underlying conditions. But please be aware that even though it has seemed that Hydra has remained more or less a covid free area, there are hidden cases circulating and care especially in crowded areas and inside must be taken.

Outdoor entertainment venues 

• Restaurants, cafes, bars & clubs are operating up to a maximum 85% capacity, serving only seated customers and 10 people per table. 
• Open-air cinemas and live theatre and music shows (for seated guests only) are operating with reduced capacity.

Indoor entertainment venues 

• Restaurants & cafes, nightclubs, music spaces, theatres and cinemas will require guests to show an official certificate of vaccination (14 days since full vaccination) or recovery (within the last six months and minimum 30 days since the first positive result). Paper or digital certificates are accepted. Unvaccinated visitors will be required to show a negative Rapid test (at a cost of €10) taken within the last 48 hours. Venues have the option to allow only vaccinated guests to enter. 
• Customers must be seated to be served at bars and clubs and under-18-year-olds are required to have carried out a Covid-19 self-test for all indoor venues.
• The following signage is also being used in indoor restaurants, bars, cinemas and theatres to reassure customers of their specific Covid-19 safety levels:

  1.   Covid-free – Catering only to guests able to show an official certificate of full immunity (vaccination or recovery)
  2.   Mixed space – Also admitting unvaccinated individuals with a negative PCR or rapid test, taken within the last 72 or 48 hours respectively
  3.   Fully vaccinated staff – Indicating that all staff have been inoculated.
​​​​​​

You won’t need to wear a mask in uncrowded open places. However, you will need to wear one in congested outdoor spaces and indoors (public transport, shops, taxis and public utilities, as well as private communal areas in hotels etc).

Please note that you may find additional, temporary measures in place in some locations, such as a restriction on movement between 1-5am and music being forbidden in public places. So be sure to ask your hotel or holiday provider for details of any local or updated measures.

Greece’s safety & vaccination program accelerates

Welcoming tourists again has been possible after the intensification of the national Covid-19 vaccination program.

According to Greece’s Health Ministry:

• More than 11.7 million Covid vaccines have been given (5.8 million residents fully vaccinated) out of a population of 10 million.
• The vaccination programme has now reached over-12-year-olds (over 15 on Hydra).

Greek islands fully vaccinated for the summer

The ‘Blue Freedom’ program to vaccinate all residents on islands was intensified in order for Greek islands to be given the maximum possible protection by the end of June. On Hydra, the Blue Freedom island based vaccination drive means  that approximately 67% of the island's population over the age of 15 have been double vaccinated as of August. Provisionally it is anticipated that booster jabs will be offered just before Christmas. Meanwhile, residents who weren't 'jabbed' as part of the island groups, are still coming forward on an ad hoc basis through the Government Envolio website.

UPDATED 12 JULY, 2021

Please Read My CoVid Updates Before You Book Your Travel

As of the 15th May, 2021, Greece and therefore Hydra Island, reopened for tourism but with various restrictions which change almost weekly. Please check both my CoVid Alerts & Travel Requirements pages before you book your trip. And once you're on Hydra don't forget to book your return trip tests. If you develop symptoms while you are on the island Click Here for advice.

UPDATED JUNE 13, 2021

As of Saturday, 12 June 2021:

Music at restaurants, bars and cafes is allowed again outside for venues that host seated customers. (€5000 fine for 1st violation, a 15-day suspension of operation for 2nd violation.)

The night curfew will shorten by one hour and is now in force between 01:30-05:00. The curfew will remain in place until the end of June.

The audience capacity for venues hosting live shows and theatre performances in outdoor spaces will increase to 75%. At all events, mask-wearing is mandatory.

Also, from July the limit of guests at weddings and baptisms will rise from 100 to 300 people.

Mask-wearing (over mouth and nose) when walking around outside and if you go inside is still mandatory. Wearing your mask as a chin strap or elbow protector does not count and you could be fined €300. This preventative measure applies to everyone whether vaccinated or not. The purpose is to reduce the risk of droplets containing the virus from spreading more widely especially when people have to  speak louder to be heard over music or when they call to each other when separated in a crowd or walking along the harbour. Please respect this requirement and comply to help keep Hydra Covid free this summer so everyone can enjoy themselves.

UPDATED MAY 28, 2021

Currently Hydra Island is a CoVid free destination. (All residents who were affected are now back on the island. But, sadly, Hydra has lost one elderly gentleman who succumbed to the virus.)

MASKS ARE STILL MANDATORY both inside and out. The rule is: if your bottom is on a seat you may take your mask off. If your bottom is not on a seat, then your mask must be on. Just because some people blatantly ignore this rule and walk around without a mask, don't think that it's okay. Hydra doesn't have enough police to constantly patrol the harbour and town and have to assume that people will do the right thing and to show respect. Those who are stopped by the police will be fined €300.

UPDATED May 13, 2021

A number of lockdown restrictions in Greece, imposed by the government to curb the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19), will be lifted on Friday, May 14.

Specifically AS OF TOMORROW Friday, 14 May, 2021:

• the country’s night curfew will begin at 00:30 (until 5am)
• requesting permission for movement via SMS to 13033 and 13032 will be abolished
• restrictions on domestic travel (movement between regions) will be lifted but with strict rules for travel between Hydra and the mainland (please see Travel restrictions for proof of vaccination or testing required).
• the “click away” and “click in shop” methods of shopping in retail stores will be abolished (the rule of one customer per 25 square meters in stores will continue to apply).
• all museums will reopen (with requirements).

• open-air cinemas will reopen on May 21 (on a 75 percent capacity so as to ensure social distancing of customers)
• live cultural events and shows in outdoor areas (only with seated guests) will resume operation on May 28
• from June, weddings and baptisms will be allowed to take place outdoors with a maximum of 100 people.

• Music will remain banned in restaurants, bars, cafes & beaches for all of May.
• Everyone is still required to wear masks both inside and outside except if they are seated either at a catering establishment or on the beach.
  

UPDATED April 25, 2021

Currently there are no cases (0) of Covid on  Hydra. 1 person is still in hospital on the mainland but is making good progress.

Vaccinations of the Hydra 18-59 year old group continues and have reached the 40ish age group so far.

Please see my Blog for the Pascha precautions in place. And see Latest Travel Restrictions for the local Pascha movement ban.

UPDATED April 18, 2021

As of today, there is 1 confirmed, active Hydra cases of CoVid-19 on Hydra. This patient is still in isolation and will be tested again this week to see if he has 'turned' negative. 1 of the affected from the beginning of the March outbreak is still in hospital and likely to have to stay there until at least mid May. (However I am very happy to report that the patient has made progress and is no longer on life support, which is much more reassuring.)

The vaccination of the Hydra group of 18+ is progressing well and will continue until just after Pascha. This includes 842 local residents.

Temporary emergency AMKAs for those who registered for one on the Emvolio platform in January have started to receive their numbers approximately 3 months after their online applications. Those who have received their SMS AMKA notifications have already been added to the group session currently underway on Hydra.

400 Hydra residents and essential workers have already  been double vaccinated.

Approximately  200 Hydra residents have obtained their vaccinations off island.

By the end of May, approximately 1446 Hydra people will have been 'double dosed'.

However,  this does not mean that Hydra is open for business as normal.

Strict observation of wearing masks, social distancing, SMS permits and reporting of any symptoms is still required.

In addition to supermarkets and essential suppliers being open, last week Hydra's shops were allowed to open but with limitations.

On Hydra, restaurants, cafes & bars are still closed for business, however owners are allowed to open their premises to carry  out repairs, decorating and generally to get ready to reopen.

The Greek Government is still planning to open for tourism again on the 14th May, however everyone in Greece is aware of the fact that travel between municipalities over the Pascha week is discouraged. Travel to Hydra is still only for essential and emergency reasons only.

Hotels, guesthouses and  pensions, and therefore holiday house rentals, have not been given permission to open for tourists yet.

All of the measures, restrictions still in place and the vaccinations happening  on Hydra to date, is to help get Greece, and therefore Hydra, as safely ready to reopen for general travel and tourism as possible. But we are not open for normal business yet. Unless you are travelling for essential or emergency reasons and you have a proof of your own residence to stay in on Hydra, as of today, you are not allowed to visit Hydra.

Speculation in the press, both in Greece and abroad, that restrictions for some countries to come to Greece being lifted next week, is still, as of today's date, just speculation. Hopefully,  tomorrow 19th April, the official Government statement will clarify matters.

UPDATED April 5, 2021

As of today, there are 22 confirmed, active Hydra cases of CoVid-19 on Hydra. 19 are in self-isolation at home with only mild symptoms. 3 cases are at mainland hospitals. 2 of the affected from the beginning of the March outbreak have recovered. Testing of those who were in contact with the patients will continue.

Registration for an on island group vaccination for the 18-59 year olds is on-going this week. Everyone is encouraged to register including those who didn't for last months 60+ group.

The Emvolio.gov.gr site has been opened for anyone with an underlying medical condition to make an appointment at either Kranidi or Galatas on the mainland. As of today, it isn't known if these people will be vaccinated more quickly as part of the anticipated on-island group or whether they should risk going off-island to get their first Vac Jabs sooner. Until the registration for the next group session is finished this coming Monday, it is likely that the Ministry of Health won't announce a date to start on Hydra until they know the numbers. So this is causing some indecision. Similarly, the Emvolio platform still hasn't been updated to allow non-residents to register for an emergency AMKA social security number. Until the platform is updated, on Hydra this small group of 27, continue to wait which is becoming increasingly frustrating as there has been no official date announced.

In spite of a surge in cases that has pushed the medical services of the country to the brink, the government has today recognised the lockdown fatigue syndrome and in an effort to relieve stress in the population but still with a mind for safety, has announced some relaxations. As of Monday, small retail shops will be allowed to open for click-collect or by-appoint shopping. The number of people taking exercise walks together has increased to 3 or a family group. (And on the mainland, people are allowed to drive outside their municipality to reach open spaces for exercise.) On Hydra, this means that in addition to the food shops & supermarkets (as well as the DIY shops who have been operating phone and collect from the door deliveries), the shoe and fashion shops, etc., will at least be able to shift some of their stock and get back into the swing of operating again!

UPDATED 25/03/21

As of today, there are 15 confirmed, active cases of CoVid-19 on Hydra. 14 are in self-isolation at home with only mild symptoms. 1 case is  severe and this patient was evacuated  last week to a mainland hospital to be intubated and put into an induced coma.Testing of those who were in contact with the patients will continue.

UPDATED 23/03/21

There are 10 confirmed, active cases of CoVid-19 on Hydra as of today. 9 are in self-isolation at home with only mild symptoms. 1 case is  severe and this patient was evacuated  last week to a mainland hospital to be intubated and put into an induced coma.Testing of those who were in contact with the patients will continue for another week.

The source case for this latest (March) outbreak, probably (but cannot be confirmed), originated because of essential and necessary trips to Athens where cases  continue to rise. The smaller outbreak on Hydra in February, also happened because of a trip into Athens. And similarly, I know of 2 cases in February that were isolated and well-contained as a little bubble, that happened because of travelling into Greece (and then on to Hydra) even though a negative CoVid PCR test was done. Running the gauntlet by travelling through two airports, taxi rides and boat rides even if you start negative obviously exposes the person travelling to extra risk.

So again, everyone is asked to be extra careful to observe ALL requirements. I would add my own request here, for anyone travelling to Hydra from the mainland, even if you feel okay, have had a negative CoVid test or feel that because you own a house on Hydra you are impervious, please behave as though you might have the virus, double mask and try to avoid contact with anyone on the island as much as possible for at least 7 days.

From 13 - 20 March 2021, on Hydra 282 residents with AMKA social security numbers over the age of 60 have had their first vaccinations conducted on Hydra at the rural doctor's surgery.

The Emvolio.gov.gr vaccination appointment database still isn't open to foreigners and residents without an AMKA. These people are asked to be patient for a little longer.

Similarly, the Emvolio site is now open to make vaccination appointments for those with high risk medical conditions. However, currently the only centres for appointments are on the mainland at Galatas & Kranidi. Visiting the mainland is putting already at risk people at even higher risk by asking them to not only visit the mainland but also to hang around as the dolphins/cats are not operating fully. But I am investigating whether it will be possible to have this group of people mass vaccinated on Hydra in the next month or so. I will report back asap.

Please continue reading for the rules that are still in force.

Current Rules still in force until told otherwise!

The rules governing the system of applying for permission to leave home during the lockdown by sending a coded SMS to the 13033 hotline become stricter tomorrow to contain the rising transmission rates. The rules also apply to Hydra.

Trips to the supermarket (Code 2) or the bank (Code 3) will have to be restricted to the municipality of residence or within a 2-kilometre radius from home.

Leaving the house using the oft-abused Code 6, which is intended for personal exercise or walking a pet, will have to be on foot and people can no longer use their car or any other form of transportation to leave home for this purpose. However it is now possible to go recreational fishing from land or a small local boat.

Inspections will be tightened for violations of Code 4, (helping someone in need like an elderly relative) and stricter enforcement of the rules allowing workers to travel to and from their place of employment.

The curfew applies to any day of the week or weekend as 21:00. to 05:00 the next day.

Masks must be worn at all times when outside or inside.

Travel to and from Hydra is only allowed for essential or emergency reasons only. And anyone coming to Hydra from outside the country MUST immediately self-isolate for 7 days (and must order online instead of calling in at the supermarket first please.)

Restrictions have been extended to the 5 April 2021 for International travel and the 29 March 2021 for domestic travel.

UPDATED 13/03/21

At the moment, the current rules (below) still apply on Hydra as throughout Attika.

However the Greek Government has announced the intention to reopen for tourism on the 14th May, so long as the statistics indicate that it's safe to. This means that everyone has to be patient for another couple of months, to take even more care than before, stay safe and help to reduce the strain on the Greek health system. Unless care is taken there's still a risk that the reopening won't happen!

Yesterday, 12 March 2021, 2 confirmed positive Covid cases were announced. Not surprisingly because their duties put them at more risk than anyone on Hydra, Mayor George Koukoudakis and Counselor Giannis Belegris publically let everyone know on their social media accounts that they are now in isolation at home but still in touch with the Municipal Team. They both asked everyone who has been in contact with them to go for testing.

And today on Hydra, vaccinations started for everyone over 60+ who registered last month.

Current Rules still in force until told otherwise!

The rules governing the system of applying for permission to leave home during the lockdown by sending a coded SMS to the 13033 hotline become stricter tomorrow to contain the rising transmission rates. The rules also apply to Hydra.

As of 6 a.m. on Thursday, trips to the supermarket (Code 2) or the bank (Code 3) will have to be restricted to the municipality of residence or within a 2-kilometre radius from home.

Leaving the house using the oft-abused Code 6, which is intended for personal exercise or walking a pet, will have to be on foot and people can no longer use their car or any other form of transportation to leave home for this purpose.

Inspections will be tightened for violations of Code 4, (helping someone in need like an elderly relative) and stricter enforcement of the rules allowing workers to travel to and from their place of employment.

One measure is being loosened. The weekend curfew is extended for an extra hour, so now from 19:00. to 05:00 the next day.

2,702 new cases of CoVid infection were reported today, a new record for 2021. (EODY) also reported 40 new deaths over the last 24 hours. The total number of deaths in Greece has reached 6,597. Attica, Greece's most populous region, remains at the pandemic's epicentre with 1,269 new cases today. The healthcare system in the region is also under the most strain.

At the beginning of the week, authorities also extended the hard lockdown to the 15th of March 2021. Given the current escalation of new cases and deaths, it will most likely be further extended.

The new measures were announced at a press briefing on Wednesday by Deputy Minister for Civil Protection Nikos Hardalias following the daily bulletin on the course of the pandemic, which showed a spike in new cases, hospital admissions, intubations, and deaths.

UPDATED 03/03/21

The rules governing the system of applying for permission to leave home during the lockdown by sending a coded SMS to the 13033 hotline become stricter tomorrow to contain the rising transmission rates. The rules also apply to Hydra.

As of 6 a.m. on Thursday, trips to the supermarket (Code 2) or the bank (Code 3) will have to be restricted to the municipality of residence or within a 2-kilometre radius from home.

Leaving the house using the oft-abused Code 6, which is intended for personal exercise or walking a pet, will have to be on foot and people can no longer use their car or any other form of transportation to leave home for this purpose.

Inspections will be tightened for violations of Code 4, (helping someone in need like an elderly relative) and stricter enforcement of the rules allowing workers to travel to and from their place of employment.

One measure is being loosened. The weekend curfew is extended for an extra hour, so now from 19:00. to 05:00 the next day.

2,702 new cases of CoVid infection were reported today, a new record for 2021. (EODY) also reported 40 new deaths over the last 24 hours. The total number of deaths in Greece has reached 6,597. Attica, Greece's most populous region, remains at the pandemic's epicentre with 1,269 new cases today. The healthcare system in the region is also under the most strain.

At the beginning of the week, authorities also extended the hard lockdown to the 15th of March 2021. Given the current escalation of new cases and deaths, it will most likely be further extended.

The new measures were announced at a press briefing on Wednesday by Deputy Minister for Civil Protection Nikos Hardalias following the daily bulletin on the course of the pandemic, which showed a spike in new cases, hospital admissions, intubations, and deaths.

UPDATED 01/03/2021

For Attika (therefore Hydra) the current hard lockdown is extended to 06:00, March 8, 2021. So no pleasure travel, wearing masks at all times, social distancing, bars/restaurants/cafes remain closed, retail shops/museums, etc still closed and restrictions are still in place.

Up to the end of February, there have been 4 confirmed cases of CoVid on Hydra Island. All were isolated and contacts followed up. Control and health care on Hydra has been good. However, cases on mainland Attika at the moment are still too high, hence the hard lockdown being extended by another week.

Vaccinations in Greece have been speeding up since started at the beginning of 2021. By February 27, 2021, 914,336 vaccinations have been carried out. (See the Greek Government Appointment site Emvolio). Specifically on Hydra, residents of 60+ have been invited to attend clinics at Kranidi or Galatas to start their vaccinations. However, many of the island's older generation have opted to lockdown in Athens this winter and so have been vaccinated there. The remaining over 60's on the island signed up (during the week 15 - 22nd Feb via a dedicated line organised by the Municipality), to be 'mass' vaccinated at the same time by a special team who will visit the island. As of yet, a date for the mass Hydra vaccination of over 60's has not been announced.



A case of Covid-19 has been confirmed on Hydra today.

Upon returning home to Hydra (from abroad) and after experiencing some symptoms the patient visited the Koulourion Hospital and was given the test which was positive. He is now in isolation.

People who the patient has been in contact with since arriving on the island have been visiting the hospital to get tested. As of this update, it is not known if anyone else has been infected.

So all residents of Hydra are asked to take even more extra care to continue using masks and take precautionary measures such as frequent hand washing, use of antiseptic etc and of course keep social distancing. And any residents returning to the island from abroad, should make sure that they self-isolate for the required 7 days even if they had a negative pre-travel test result.

As was more or less expected, Greece has extended the current strict restrictions indefinitely. The only exception is that more of the local shops are allowed to open with strict measures. Nursery and junior schools reopened last week but senior high school is still being conducted online from home. Still in place is no travel outside own residential area, short trips only for essentials with your SMS/permit, ID and mask. Social distancing still required and the night-time curfew is still in place.

Current restrictions extended until the 18th of January:

In addition please note that any travellers (international or Greek) arriving in Greece from outside the country, must have proof of a negative Covid test taken 72 hours prior to departure and will still be required to quarantine for 7 days at home or place of temporary residence as shown on their PLF.

Travellers from the UK will now also have to repeat the CoVid test again for their return journey in order to re-enter the UK. And similarly, anyone visiting the UK from Greece will have to present negative CoVid test results at both ends of their trip.

(Personal observation: Don't contemplate travelling unless it's absolutely necessary - regards Kelsey)

Current restrictions extended until the 11th of January:

The suspension of retail stores will return to how it was before the holiday season. (So Retail stores, hair/nail salons and bookstores will close again).

The obligatory curfew will start from 21:00 and end at 5:00. The only exceptions for movement between this time period remain commuting to the workplace and urgent medical reasons.

Churches will remain closed and the Epiphany celebration won’t take place outdoors as usual.

Don’t forget that you are still obligated to send an SMS / have a written form before leaving your house, and you can only leave your house for specific reasons only.

And wearing a mask inside or in town is obligatory still.

This afternoon, 7 December 2020, Greece has announced that the lockdown will be extended to after the New Year.

The current lockdown measures will stay in place to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease until 7 January 2021, including a night time curfew and a ban on traveling outside home prefectures.

Schools, restaurants, bars, courts and ski resorts will remain closed until that date, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said during a press conference. He said the government will announce measures regarding churches, hair salons and retail stores later in the week.

The country’s pandemic death toll reached 3,000 at the weekend, with a high percentage occurring after November 1.

Despite a significant drop in cases over the past week, authorities have extended the countrywide lockdown to Dec. 14 (see below), but have allowed certain shops, including those selling Christmas-related merchandise, to open from Monday (7th).

As of Saturday, 7 November 2020 at 06:00, Greece and therefore Hydra Island, is in complete lockdown again. Apart from Kindergarten and Junior schools remaining open unlike the restrictions in Spring, all other restrictions are back in place until at least the end of the month. Fines for non-compliance have been increased from €150 to €300.

What's open/closed, permissible and not, on Hydra Island Greece from 06:00 Saturday 7th November until 30th November 2020.

OPEN

Essential stores: supermarkets, food stores (bakeries, butchers etc) pet shop, cigarette kiosk, heating suppliers, pharmacies, optician as well as primary & secondary schools. Health services and veterinarian clinics. (By appointment only). And if going out for essentials you must have your permit (see below). Building and construction sites are allowed to stay open (and must adhere to the guidelines as last Spring).

CLOSED

1. Retail shops closed but obviously can make e-shop sales.
2. Restaurants, cafes and bars are closed but delivery and take-away are allowed.
3. Cinemas, theatres, archaeological sites, (museums) playgrounds, amusement and theme parks.
4. Beaches (you may walk across them but you may not sit).
5. No swimming.
6. No Hunting or fishing is permitted.
7. Private boat use is also banned.

TRAVEL

1. Travel between regional units is forbidden except for these reasons: health, once-only travel to reach permanent residence (E1 form required), essential work (refers to seasonal workers).
2. All travellers arriving in Greece from abroad will have to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours. It refers to travel via air or land or sea.
3. Travellers who leave Greece will have to complete a Passenger Location Form.
4. Hellenic Seaways will operate only 1 sailing each way for the duration of November. Hydra - Piraeus 07:30. Piraeus - Hydra 17:00.
5. Freedom Passenger Ferries will operate a limited service between Hydra - Metochi (07:00, except Sundays 11:00 & 15:00). Metochi - Hydra (08:00, except Sundays, 12:00 & 16:00).
6. Visitors already on the island are permitted to stay but must observe all required restrictions and stay in their accommodation at all times with the exception of the permit reasons for being out.

GATHERINGS

All prohibited until further notice.

ONLY PERMITTED REASONS FOR ANYONE TO BE OUT

SMS (or form) required for every reason for anyone being out of their accommodation, plus passport/ID, and must be wearing a mask at all times both inside and outside.

1. For health reasons (going to a pharmacy, visiting a doctor or going to a hospital or health centre (incl, optician and possibly dentist TBC), with an appointment and if this is recommended after relevant communication). [SMS – Option 1]
2. For purchase of essential supplies, where delivery not possible. [SMS – Option 2]
3. Going to public services, if the electronic or telephone service is not possible only for urgent needs, after setting an appointment for which the citizen is informed in writing or electronically and under the additional condition of showing the above information. Go to the bank, to the extent that electronic transaction is not possible. [SMS – Option 3]
4. Provide assistance to people in need. Transfer to/from the place of work of a spouse or first-degree relative, if necessary. Transfer of a minor to/from school [SMS – Option 4]
5. Attend a ceremony (eg funeral) under the conditions provided by law or going to divorced parents or separated parents to ensure necessary communication between parents and children, in accordance with the provisions in force. [SMS – Option 5]
6. Physical exercise outdoors or walking with a pet, individually or in pairs of two (2) persons, provided that in the latter case the necessary distance of one and a half (1.5) meters is observed. Transition for feeding stray animals, if the transition takes place within the municipality of residence of the citizen. [SMS – Option 6]

Forms for students, parents, employees, workers etc, can be found on forma.gov.gr

To obtain permit by SMS

To obtain an SMS permit on your phone, you need to send a text message to 13033 (don't try ringing the number).

On your phone, select 'message'.

In the To box, enter 13033

In the text box, type, the number of the reason (as above) followed by your name and address (only Hydra 18040 is required).

Press send.

For example:

2 Kelsey Edwards Hydra 18040

You will get an immediate response of:

ΜΕΤΑΚΙΝΗΣΗ 2 Kelsey Edwards Hydra 18040

This is the message you must have available to show the police as well as your passport/ID (and wearing a mask) if requested (immediate €300 fine if you don't have all three items).

You must have one permit for each person and for each use.

Permit Form (In English)

If you don't have a Greek mobile phone number, you will need to print the following form if you have access to a printer, or copy it out in pen so you can reuse it each time you need a permit to go out. See instructions below the form.

How to get your permit if you DON’T have a GREEK MOBILE or DON’T have a printer. And DON’T read Greek.

Open the image (above) of the permit form in English.

Take a clean sheet of paper (preferably A4).

By hand, with a PEN (preferably black) make a good copy of ALL of the permit form.

Once you have a good copy:

USING A PEN complete:

Your name

Your Date of Birth

Your Address (just, your area of Hydra and the postcode 18040, will do)

Leave the time BLANK for the moment

Don’t put a cross in any of the boxes for the moment

Use a PEN to put HYDRA as the location

Use a PEN to put the name of the person signing

Use a PEN to write your signature.

Now your form will be ready to use and REUSE.

When you need to go out for ESSENTIAL trips use a PENCIL and don’t press too hard (with a rubber on the top) to complete:

The start and end time you expect to be out (for example 10:30 - 11:00) In PENCIL

Put a cross in the ONE box you need as the reason for going out IN PENCIL

Put the date at the bottom in PENCIL.

Then you can go out with your permit form and your passport/ID.

When you get back, use a rubber to erase the pencil entries and your permit form will be ready for you to use next time. You must make sure that the pencil you use can be completely rubbed out each time.

Please note that you can only use 1 (ONE) reason per permit.

If there is more than one of you in your household, you will need to handwrite the form and do the above for each person. 1 form per person even if you have to go out together (maximum 2 people 1.5m apart at all times).

If you pressed too hard with your pencil and can't rub out so that the previous use is completely erased, you will have to make another copy. You must not have more than one cross showing in more than one box.

If you need to take a quick trip to the bins, you need option 6!

15/10/2020

Level 3. Increased Surveillance

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