Morocco: Authorities announce resumption of domestic flights from June 25 /update 18

Event

Moroccan authorities announced on Monday, June 22, that domestic flights would be permitted to resume from Thursday, June 25, amid the further easing of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions. Additionally, the relaxation of restrictions will also allow the resumption of rail transport operations. The current state of health emergency was earlier extended until July 10.

The government has classified the country into two zones with the majority of the country now classed as zone one. In zone one areas, movement can occur without a permit, public spaces can be accessed, and some non-essential businesses have been permitted to reopen. Public transport may also operate on a reduced schedule. Areas in zone two will see movement restrictions remain in place, and permits will still be required for essential travel. Public gatherings and events also remain prohibited.

As of Monday, June 22, health authorities have confirmed 10,172 COVID-19 cases and 214 associated deaths in Morocco. 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 mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical care urgently and share your previous travel history with your health care provider.