Mask Mandate Introduced in the TRNC for Individuals with Respiratory Illnesses

The Ministry of Health of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has announced that people suffering from upper respiratory tract infections are now required to wear masks in crowded areas. This decision, along with other measures taken by the High Committee on Infectious Diseases, has been shared with the public.

Under the new regulation, masks are mandatory for visitors to nursing homes, hospitals, and prisons, as well as for staff working in nursing homes and caregivers of individuals aged 65 and older.

Citizens who belong to high-risk groups are urged to consult their doctors for a medical check-up to identify any potential upper respiratory tract infections and to begin treatment promptly. The high-risk group includes:

• Individuals aged 65 and older,
• Those with chronic lung, kidney, or neurological conditions,
• People undergoing long-term treatment with immunosuppressive drugs,
• Diabetics,
• HIV-positive individuals, and
• Children under the age of 5.

For patients experiencing symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, medical reports will be provided by their physicians if necessary.

Additionally, the Laboratory Committee has emphasized that all diagnostic tests used in Northern Cyprus, including COVID-19 and other viral tests, must carry CE-IVD certification.

The CE marking is a mandatory certification for all in vitro diagnostic (IVD) devices sold in Europe. It confirms that the device complies with the European Directive for in vitro diagnostic devices and is legally authorized for sale in the EU.

Recent reports have highlighted a surge in seasonal flu and winter-related infections in Northern Cyprus. As a result, nearly all intensive care unit (ICU) beds in both public and private hospitals are currently occupied.