Caribbean National Weekly

Grenada Considering Reducing Quarantine Period for Vaccinated Travelers

By Sheri-kae McLeod··2 min read
Grenada Considering Reducing Quarantine Period for Vaccinated Travelers
Health authorities in Grenada are considering changing the quarantine period for all incoming passengers who are fully vaccinated with one of the vaccines approved for emergency used by the World Health Organisation (WHO). According to Health Minister Nickolas Steele, the idea is for people who are fully vaccinated – to mingle with the citizens quicker.

At present, all incoming passengers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR no less than three days before travel.

Upon arrival, the person will head straight into quarantine and then be a test on the fifth day – once a negative test is obtained the person will be medically cleared to leave quarantine.

“If someone is fully vaccinated with AstraZeneca, with Pfizer, with Moderna then you don’t have to, or will have a significantly reduced quarantine period when coming into Grenada,” said Steele who was speaking on Wednesday during the weekly post-cabinet briefing.

As of March 18th, Grenada became one of the seven Caribbean destinations that was placed on a low-risk list by the US-based Centre for Disease Control (CDC)   – the level indicated that all travelers should wear a mask, avoid crowds, stay at least six feet from people who are not traveling together, washing hands often or use hand sanitizers and watch their health for signs of the illness.

The new ranking from the CDC came less than two weeks before Sandals – one of Grenada’s all-inclusive properties resumed operation after a three-month closure.

The hotel was reportedly linked to the island’s December cluster.

“As part of our campaign to reopen, all our travel agents are now encouraging clients to become vaccinated,” said Peter Fraser the General Manager at Sandals.

“So, if persons who are fully vaccinated will have reduced quarantine, we will welcome this positive news,” he added.

As part of the reopening protocol, Sandals has established a quarantine area for any guest who is tested positive on the island.

 For his part, Tourism Minister, Clarice Modeste is pleased that the island is now categorized by the CDC as a level one but is at the same time, concerned that more tourism workers are not opting to become vaccinated.

She also confirmed that health authorities are having a discussion about changing the protocol for entering the island.

CMC

Related Stories

Guyana commission of inquiry prepares for public hearings into MV Barima sinking

Guyana commission of inquiry prepares for public hearings into MV Barima sinking

Bermuda government moves to strengthen oversight of major health care changes

Bermuda government moves to strengthen oversight of major health care changes

St Lucia PM briefs Trinidad on CCJ opinion over CARICOM secretary-general appointment

St Lucia PM briefs Trinidad on CCJ opinion over CARICOM secretary-general appointment

American tourist faces at least 15 years in prison for ammunition left in luggage

American tourist faces at least 15 years in prison for ammunition left in luggage