Malta could face a lockdown if discipline is neglected

Feb 27 2021

The Chamber of Commerce has stated that a more serious enforcement of COVID-19 measures are required to avoid any future lockdown. With this week seeing the highest number of COVID-19 cases and spread of variants, the Chamber highlighted the importance of not becoming complacent.

The introduction of the vaccine should not be a green light to ignore measures as the road towards removing COVID-19 from the field of play is still a long way ahead.

A false sense of security might result in a lockdown as cases continues to spread, and thus with the help of the vaccine, measures should still be tended too. Social gatherings are still to be avoided and only necessary work requirements should warrant individuals to meet up in numbers.

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Contraceptives to find their place on essential medicine list soon

Feb 27 2021

As part of a new sexual health strategy with a more holistic approach, Health Minister Chris Fearne hinted at contraceptives being placed on the essential medicine list. The strategy hasn’t been updated in ten years, but this new incentive could see the statements made by activities be given fruition.

According to WHO, essential medicines are ‘those that satisfy the priority health needs of the population’ and qualify to make it to the list in consideration of evidence of clinical efficacy and safety, cost-effectiveness, disease prevalence and public health relevance.

Contraceptives have had a sore history in Malta, but this measure might see the country being stocked with them to address any requirement.

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HSBC Victoria, Gozo branch closed until 12th March due to corona virus

Feb 27 2021

After positive testing for COVID-19, HSBC Malta announced that the Victoria, Gozo branch had to be closed down with immediate effect until 12th March 2021. Placing the safety of its customers and employees at the forefront, the bank reminded customers that the majority of services are available through Credit and Debit Cards, Mobile, Internet, ATM and Deposit Machine services.

Apologising for any inconvenience, HSBC Malta opened a 24 hour contact line through 2380 8219 should any help be required by the Gozo branch customers. As cases seem to be on the rise once more and one directly effecting the branch, HSBC Victoria, Gozo highlights the importance of taking the necessary precautions to avoid spread and ensure safety.

IMPORTANT NOTICEWe would like to let our customers know that our branch in Victoria, Gozo, has temporarily closed,…

Posted by HSBC on Friday, 26 February 2021

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Vaccination certificates within three months of availability

Feb 27 2021

The European Commission President predicts the use of EU vaccine certificates to be operational within three months. Speaking at a press conference in Brussels on Thursday, Ursula von Der Leyen stated that the possibility of determining whether or not a citizen has been vaccinated will soon be a reality. The certificate will be given to those receive their jab, a negative PCR test or have antibodies.

The time frame given is in consideration of all the technical development required to take place and the efficiency of the Commission on European and national level to implement the measure.

Other vaccinations for other viruses are already in place and thus COVID-19 should be no exception once implemented. Countries dependent on tourism seem to be in favour of the system but others, like Germany, express their doubts.

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