Uzbekistan: Authorities announce changes in COVID-19 related restrictions May 30 /update 12

Event

On Saturday, May 30, Uzbek authorities announced that, while the quarantine measures in place nationwide to counter the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) would be extended until June 15, some restrictions would be relaxed in the coming days. Authorities previously eased some restrictions earlier this month by dividing the country into three zones; green, yellow, and red, on the basis of newly-detected COVID-19 infections. As part of the new measures, those in the green zone will see summer camps, recreational centers, and sports facilities reopen, as well as weddings and other events permitted to take place with up to 30 guests.

Additionally, the resumption of domestic tourism and sporting events such as soccer matches has been permitted. Bus tours between provinces will be allowed, with the exception of entering red zones. Many businesses will be permitted to reopen from Monday, June 1, under the new measures.

Land and air borders remain closed to non-Uzbek nationals. However, rail and air links between Tashkent and remote regions have been allowed to partially resume. Flights between Tashkent, Nukus, Urgench, and Termez have resumed, as well as rail services between Tashkent, Samarkand, Navoi, Bukhara, Karshi, and the Fergana Valley, including the high-speed Afrosiyob service.

Many businesses have been permitted to resume operations since early May and shops selling construction materials, car parts, seeds, and seedlings, as well as those providing services for agricultural and construction machinery, among others, have reopened. Additionally, insurers, notaries, and dry-cleaning businesses have reopened. It is compulsory to wear a facemask while outside, and individuals may be fined for violating the measure.

As of Saturday, May 30, health authorities have confirmed 3523 COVID-19 cases and 14 associated deaths in the country. Further spread of the virus is expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and labored breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the virus.