Minister says health system overloaded, doesn't expect chaos due to mass testing

Speaking to the press, Bozinovic said he could not say that there would be no problems, but added that there would have been no problems had the basic COVID rules been adhered to.

Those rules and vaccination will be most important as long as the epidemic lasts, he said. "If everyone applied those two things, there would be no need for COVID certificates nor any strict epidemiological measures."

Bozinovic added that everything was being done to avoid a lockdown.

He went on to say that he would like to be able to dedicate more of his time to the police, "but I can't because we must all deal with the challenges of the pandemic."

He said he realised that the health system, notably hospitals, were overloaded.

We can't bring ourselves in a situation in which people can't get healthcare because of those who refuse to get vaccinated against COVID. Every vaccinated citizen potentially means a bed more for those who need it, not just COVID patients, Bozinovic added.

Asked if COVID testing would be affordable, he said he hoped it would and that tests would be procured via the commodity stockpiles directorate.

He reiterated that vaccination was the best way to prevent and slow the epidemic, notably the pressure on hospitals. "Everyone who contributes by getting vaccinated, helps our health system to function."

Asked to comment on announcements by some government employees and public servants that they would refuse to get tested in order to be able to enter public and state institutions as of Tuesday, Bozinovic said one would see tomorrow "if there are such people and who they are and how the Health Ministry will regulate it."

Commenting on protests against COVID rules and vaccination, he reiterated that vaccination was the best way to relieve hospitals and "the most effective tool in the fight against the pandemic."