Madagascar: Authorities ease COVID-19 measures on June 14 /update 10

Event

On Sunday, June 14, Malagasy authorities eased measures that had been implemented nationwide to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). As part of the easing, the majority of past restrictions have been lifted, including the curfew. However, all gatherings of more than 50 people remain banned, and cultural and sporting events are suspended. Regional and national transportation will run a limited service.

Restrictions are to remain in place in the five most affected areas: the province of Analamanga, and the districts of Toamasina I and II, Fénérive-Est, and Moramanga. However, some restrictions have been eased. In Analamanga, regular activities are now permitted until 17:00 (local time) and public transport will be operational until 19:00. In the four other affected districts, activities are permitted until 15:00, but schools will remain closed. The 22:00 to 04:00 curfew will remain in effect in the five worst affected areas.

As of Wednesday, June 17, health authorities have confirmed 1378 COVID-19 cases and 12 associated deaths in Madagascar. 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 trouble 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 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 your 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 disease.