Miss Universe contestant tests positive for COVID-19 in Israel
A Miss Universe contestant has tested positive for COVID-19 on her arrival in Israel ahead of next month's competition, The Jerusalem Post reported.
However, it is unclear is the unnamed contestant tested positive for the omicron variant of the virus that has raised alarms around the world and led to the reinstatement of travel restrictions in many countries.
Israel, for example, announced on Saturday that it was closing its borders.
The contestant, whose identity and nationality have not been shared publicly, was fully vaccinated and had tested negative prior to departure. All those who came in contact with the contestant have been alerted and advised to isolate as well, according to the Post.
"The Miss Universe competition is under a number of strict COVID-19 protocols and restrictions, developed in accordance with Israeli officials and through best-in-class industry standards," the Miss Universe organizers said in a statement, per the Post.
"We continue to cooperate with the Israeli authorities and will share more information as it is appropriate," the statement added.
The organizers said on Sunday that the competition will go ahead in the Israeli city of Eilat despite the reissued travel restrictions. Most of the 80 contestants have already arrived in Israel.
Tourism minister Yoel Razvozov said on Sunday that pageant participants will be granted waivers, undergo COVID-19 testing every 48 hours and follow precautionary measures.
