Latvia's government has approved amendments to regulations allowing the Disease Prevention and Control Center (SPKC) to identify contact persons involved in infectious disease outbreaks in passenger transport. This includes both international travel and local transportation that utilizes electronic passenger registration. The changes were deemed necessary in response to amendments made to the law governing air passenger data processing, which restricts the use of such data for contact identification in the case of infections.

The new regulations establish a legal framework for the SPKC to obtain the necessary information for epidemiological investigations from passenger carriers. This modification aims to streamline the identification process of those who may have been in close contact with individuals infected by contagious diseases, which is critical for public health management. The government is focused on enhancing its response capabilities, particularly in transportation sectors where large numbers of people are frequently in contact.

Previously, contact tracing was primarily aimed at educational institutions, healthcare facilities, social care institutions, and child care establishments. With the expanded rules, there is now a more comprehensive approach to public health, including transportation sectors, ensuring that health authorities can swiftly address outbreaks and mitigate risks associated with communicable diseases. The move is reflective of ongoing efforts to improve disease control measures in the country and enhance public safety during transit activities.