Ukraine: Adaptive quarantine measures extended through July 31 /update 16

Event

The Ukrainian government announced on Wednesday, June 17, that adaptive quarantine measures introduced due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic would be extended through July 31. The measures were originally scheduled to be lifted on Monday, June 22; however, the extension came following an increase in deaths related to COVID-19. Although the adaptive quarantine allows for restrictions to be eased in certain regions, the government stated that measures may be enhanced in affected regions.

Domestic and international flights resumed on Monday, June 15. Although intercity travel on trains and buses resumed at the beginning of June, social distancing and the wearing of masks and gloves, as well as temperature screenings, remain mandatory at many train stations and bus depots.

On May 20, Ukraine began a phased easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Most regions have entered phase 3 of the relaxation, which includes the resumption of public transport and sporting events without spectators, as well as the reopening of hotels, swimming pools, and gyms. Regions with high infection rates may remain in phase 1. The wearing of masks in public remains compulsory in all regions Restaurants, bars, and religious buildings have also been permitted to reopen in most areas since June 5. People over 60 will also no longer be obliged to comply with self-isolation orders.

In Kyiv, authorities announced the easing of COVID-19 restrictions at shopping malls and the reopening of the city's subway system at the end of May. Outdoor cafes, beauty salons, dental clinics, museums, parks, recreation areas, and takeaway services also reopened. Groups of up to eight people are currently allowed to gather in outdoor public areas. However, food courts and cinemas remain closed.

As of Saturday, June 20, health authorities have confirmed 35,755 COVID-19 cases and 955 associated deaths in the country. 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 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 disease.