"We are going to extend another month the imperative requirement for PCR tests to enter in airports and ports in the Autonomous Region of Madeira," stated Miguel Albuquerque.

The government explained that the measure that allows to only get a rapid antigen test, scheduled to take effect on 1 July, will be revoked.

Miguel Albuquerque highlighted that the decision stems from the worsening of the epidemiological situation in Lisbon and Vale do Tejo region, where the Delta variant of the new coronavirus has become prevalent.

"Of course, the PCR test at the airports and ports of the Autonomous Region of Madeira gives us greater security guarantees", he stressed.

Miguel Albuquerque added, on the other hand, that the Delta variant has not yet been detected in the archipelago, and the health authorities are awaiting the results of samples sent for analysis at the National Institute of Health (INSA).

For travel between islands - Madeira and Porto Santo - the requirement to present a negative antigen test from 1 July remains.