Rwanda: Authorities extend lockdown measures in Rusizi district (Western province) June 12 /update 8

Event

Authorities extended lockdown measures in Rusizi district (Western province) to Nkombo sector on Friday, June 12, following an increase in cases of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The decision comes following lockdowns that were reintroduced in the sectors of Gihundwe, Kamembe, Mururu, and Nyakarenzo on June 2. Inter-provincial transport and moto-taxi services have been suspended in Rusuzi district.

The government has been gradually easing restrictions introduced due to COVID-19. On May 4, some businesses were allowed to resume operations and movement restrictions were eased. However, a curfew remains in place between 21:00 and 05:00 (local time) during which movement is prohibited without government permission. Movement is currently limited to accessing essential or medical services or to carry out essential work. Public and private transport between provinces was permitted to resume on June 3, with the exception of Rusuzi and Rubavu districts. The wearing of face masks in public is mandatory. Some public sector and private businesses have been permitted to resume under strict conditions and only using essential staff. Hotels and restaurants can operate but must be closed at 19:00. Individuals sporting activity is allowed in open spaces, but facilities, gyms, and recreation centers remain closed.

All bars, schools, universities, and places of worship remain closed. Public meetings in public spaces and mass gatherings are prohibited. Rwanda's borders remain closed except for goods and cargo. Returning citizens and legal residents will be subject to a 14-day quarantine at designated locations.

As of Saturday, June 13, health authorities have confirmed 510 cases of the virus nationwide and two associated deaths. Further international 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 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 disease.