With these measures Puerto Rico begins the reopening 3:04
(CNN) - Puerto Rico will have some new and strict rules for people traveling to the island in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
Governor Wanda Vázquez Garced said she will sign a decree that, among other things, will require visitors to provide a negative covid-19 test result within 72 hours of arrival.
"I want Puerto Ricans living in the continental United States to come to our island safely and visit their families without fear of spreading this virus or infecting a loved one," said Vázquez in a statement. "I want tourists and everyone who visits Puerto Rico to feel safe."
Under the decree, visitors would also need to wear face masks and follow appropriate social distancing measures at three airports: Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, Rafael Hernández International Airport, and Mercedita International Airport.
The governor said the decree will take effect on July 15.
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The decree also states that if a visitor cannot deliver a negative test result, they must go through the review process and further tests at the airport and follow quarantine procedures.
There will be exemptions. Aviation mechanics, flight crew members, active duty military, federal or other agents authorized by the Secretary of Health may be excluded from testing and quarantine.
However, everyone must complete the travel statements for proper follow-up and monitoring by the Department of Health and comply with the protocols and requests for information.
"As we move forward with the orderly and safe reopening of our economy, we will continue to implement the necessary measures to prevent the spread of this virus," said Vázquez.
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Tourism is one of the leading industries in Puerto Rico. And officials say it is their priority to make sure there are protections for tourists and residents during the pandemic.
"I want our island to be ready, as we continue to face this new reality of covid-19," said Vázquez.
coronavirus