Uzbekistan: Authorities extend COVID-19 restrictions until August 1 /update 14

Event

Authorities in Uzbekistan have extended the nationwide lockdown measures until August 1 in order to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The system of 'green', 'yellow', and 'red' zones will continue, with different measures in place depending on the amount of COVID-19 cases present in each zone. 'Green' and 'yellow' zones are to lift restrictions on schools on Monday, June 15. State kindergartens are to reopen on August 1. On June 15, Uzbek authorities eased transportation measures amid a decrease in the number of COVID-19 cases. The Ministry of Transport stated that certain international flights are to resume with restrictions based on the country of departure's epidemic situation. Citizens and those with permanent residency, as well as individuals associated with certain business and diplomatic organizations and their families, will be allowed to enter and leave the country at free will.

Furthermore, train service from Tashkent to various other cities throughout the country has resumed, with schedules based on the epidemiological situation in their respective regions.

The wearing of masks, the use of hand sanitizer, and the maintaining of social distancing are mandatory.

As of Tuesday, June 15, health authorities have confirmed 5263 COVID-19 cases and 19 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.