Italy has added the Czech Republic to its list of high-risk countries

Prague, Oct 7 (CTK) -- As the COVID-19 numbers in the Czech lands continue to rise, another European country has added the Czech Republic to its risk list.

Italy listed the Czech Republic as a COVID-risk country yesterday, meaning those entering Italy from the Czech Republic must present a negative COVID test, a maximum of 72 hours old, the Czech Foreign Ministry told journalists late Wednesday afternoon.

The ministry Tweeted later on Wednesday night: "It will only be possible to travel to Italy with a negative test. The rule has been in force since midnight today, exceptions will include, for example, transit. We will find out more detailed information and publish it on the website of the Embassy in Rome."

The Foreign Ministry said along with passing the test in the Czech Republic, it was also possible to have a rapid test done upon arrival at one of the Italian airports.

So far, Italy has only demanded negative COVID-19 tests for arrivals from Croatia, Greece, Malta, Spain and some French regions.

Some countries such as Greece are also demanding negative COVID-19 tests from arrivals from the Czech Republic. Other countries such as Switzerland or the Netherlands demand compulsory quarantine upon arrival from the Czech Republic, even from those who tested negative.

Since September, the infection numbers have continued to rise in the Czech Republic. On Tuesday, a record 4,457 new cases were registered.

For further details on traveling to Italy from the Czech Republic, see the ministry's Travel to Italy FAQ.