European countries have begun to close air links with Britain because a new strain of the coronavirus, 70% more contagious, has been found in the country. According to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, it has led to a sharp increase in the number of infected people.

Thus, on Sunday, December 20, there were 35,928 new cases of coronavirus infection and 326 deaths in Great Britain. The total number of those infected in the country was 2,040,147 and the official death toll reached 67,401.

Several counties have imposed heightened restrictions since the weekend for two weeks. In the southeast, entry and exit are closed, residents are not allowed to leave their homes unless absolutely necessary, and only pharmacies and stores selling essential goods are allowed to operate. Tightened and security measures during the holidays – in particular, to celebrate Christmas can only be with the family, gather together in several families is not allowed.

Austria, Belgium, Italy and the Netherlands have already announced the suspension of flights with Britain. The authorities of Germany, Israel, Ireland and France are planning to do the same. Rail and ferry communication with the island will be most likely stopped as well.

Cyprus and Greece are imposing a mandatory quarantine for arrivals from Britain.
As of this morning, such passengers must present a negative test for coronavirus no older than 72 hours when boarding a plane to Greece and must spend seven days in quarantine upon arrival.
Arriving in Cyprus implies a two-week self-isolation. However, if the PCR test is negative after ten days, one can be “released” earlier.