That St. Maarten’s Electronic Health Authorisation System (EHAS) will provide immediate pre-approval for incoming COVID-19 vaccinated travellers (see related story) effective August 1 spells good news for the local tourism economy particularly going into the always difficult low season. While these passengers are already exempted from mandatory testing, government believes an instant response can prevent many cancellations.
Unvaccinated guests must continue to show a negative test, even though many other destinations no longer require such. It’s been suggested that the original injections offer little protection at this point anyway.
However, some is probably still better than none, especially since the pandemic has been making a comeback of sorts in various of the region’s important visitor source markets. A degree of prudence regarding the matter can therefore be understood.
Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor VSA Omar Ottley also explained plans for EHAS to transition into a Port Health Authority needed at both the harbour and airport. The latter became apparent during a recent International Health Regulation (IHR) meeting in Aruba.
He indicated not being in favour of removing regulations and then having to reinstate them later, which would seem to make sense. The intention is to have automated approval for all arrivals by October 15, before the traditional high season starts.
The first change starting next month may not be all the dominant hospitality industry desired, but is certainly a step in the right direction. Together with the “save the summer” Expedia campaign and other efforts it will hopefully help put more “heads in beds” during the coming period.
