The groups of Italian and European teenagers who have returned to Malta for a week have brought life back to the streets, but also caused infections to explode in the country with the highest rate of fully vaccinated residents in the world. 90% of the 252 cases currently active (of which only three hospitalized) concern – the authorities underline – young foreigners who entered the country with a negative molecular test. Many to participate in language courses in the archipelago, triggering 9 outbreaks in as many English schools. Among them there are also 21 Italians under 18, positive results and quarantined with their travel companions, in total about 70 minors.
The boys would be stuck on the island as reported by Erich Grimaldi, president of the ‘Covid19 Home Care’ committee, to which the mother of a girl from Portici (Naples) turned to ask for assistance to young people. Assistance that the Italian Embassy in Valletta – specifies in a post on Fb – is providing, “in conjunction with the competent Maltese Authorities”: “The Staff of the Office, compatibly with the health restrictions, is going to the facilities where the largest groups of compatriots are hosted, to ensure that the treatment meets the standards agreed when purchasing the package “, states the diplomatic headquarters. In recent days, the Maltese media had reported similar cases among Spanish students.
According to the Maltese rules, in case of positivity the quarantine is mandatory (and for a fee) up to a double negative buffer. The picture of the resumption of infections and new outbreaks worries Valletta which, even after the harsh attack of the Maltese Doctors’ Association which had branded the opening to tourism as an ‘amateur’ move, decided a clear squeeze. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health, as well as doctor, Chris Fearne announced that, from next Wednesday, Malta will only be able to enter with a vaccination certificate (Maltese, Green Pass EU or British NHS) completed by at least 14 days. By becoming the first European country to do so. It also ordered, from the same day, the closure of all language schools. Meanwhile, football is also a cause for concern.
A week ago, thousands crowded into the streets to celebrate the championship won by Spartans Hamrun. And for the final of Euro 2020 next Sunday between Italy and England (the local fans have always been divided 40-60, with the advantage of the nostalgic component of the colony status) the police were called to maximum alert, for reasons of public safety. but also in an anti-contagion function. But almost all the bars and restaurants of the archipelago have already prepared their screens for cheering. And they are fully booked.