Senegal: Authorities reintroduce COVID-19 measures following spike in cases August 8 /update 12

Event

Senegalese authorities have reintroduced restrictive measures in the country as of Saturday, August 8, due to a sharp increase in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases. The measures include a ban on gatherings at beaches, sports grounds, theatres, and in public spaces, as well as restrictions on demonstrations. Face masks are now mandatory in offices as well as in shops, and in all public places, including public transport. Violations of the restrictions may be punishable by penal actions.

While international flights resumed on July 15, this was mainly a measure for Senegalese nationals and residents stranded abroad to return to the country, as well as foreign nationals stranded in the country to leave. Land and sea borders remain closed.

As of Wednesday, August 12, authorities have confirmed 11,587 cases of COVID-19 in the country and 633 associated deaths. Further international spread of the virus is to be expected over 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, 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.