Finnish health authorities are preparing for an increase in passenger numbers on the eastern border when European Football Championship games are played in the Russian city of St. Petersburg.
The Vaalimaa border station in particular is preparing for an influx of tourists, specifically between June 16 and June 21, when the Finnish national team are scheduled to play matches against Russia and Belgium.
Health counselling and Covid testing will be offered round-the-clock throughout the tournament. Normally, health services and coronavirus testing is available between 7am and 9.30pm.
Kymenlaakso Social and Health Association, Kymsote, expects the Vaalimaa border station to experience heavy traffic on game days.
In Kymenlaakso, there are recommendations to avoid travel abroad and participating in events containing large crowds. The recommendation also applies to travel to the European Football Championships.
Kymsote wants to remind those travelling abroad to use the Finentry service upon arrival in Finland. It is a digital service that streamlines travel to Finland and Covid testing related to entry.
The Kymenlaakso Covid coordination group stated on Wednesday that the Covid situation in the area remains in the acceleration phase. There is a gathering restriction of a maximum of 20 people, which applies to indoor and outdoor spaces. The restriction is in effect until June 15.