Brazil: Authorities are likely to maintain COVID-19-related business restrictions through at least December 16; Transport disruptions likely /update 19

Authorities in Brazil are likely to maintain COVID-19-related business restrictions through at least Dec. 16. Transport disruptions likely.

Event

Authorities in Brazil will likely maintain their coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related ban on entry for nonresident foreign nationals by land and water, except as specified otherwise, through at least Dec. 16. Brazilian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members, as well as foreign residents working for international organizations or foreign governments, or who are traveling for trade or humanitarian purposes, are exempt from the ban. The extension entered into effect Nov. 12.

Apart from the overarching land border closures and as part of a joint agreement, the land border crossings with Paraguay - specifically at Foz do Iguacu, Ponta Pora, and Mundo Novo - are open. Foreign citizens are allowed to enter Brazil by air for visits of no longer than 90 days; travelers no longer need to provide proof of health insurance to enter the country.

Internal Measures
Domestically, local authorities have implemented their own economic recovery plans in each of the country's 26 states and the federal district. Restrictions and measures vary depending on the state; some cities are also empowered to enforce their own actions. Commercial activity has largely resumed in most parts of the country, albeit subject to operating protocols and capacity limits. The use of facemasks is also required in various areas. Rio de Janeiro is already in an advanced recovery stage, allowing restaurants, bars, gyms, cinemas, tourist sites, religious services, and personal care businesses to operate. Some states that are still implementing recovery plans are:

Sao Paulo: Authorities maintain a five-tier economic recovery plan that permits businesses and entertainment and recreational facilities to operate up to 12 hours with up to 60-percent occupancy in Phase 4 (Green) and up to eight hours with 40-percent capacity in Phase 3 (Yellow). Cultural activities, conventions, and social or business events are permitted in Phase 4. As of Dec. 4, the entire state of Sao Paulo is in Phase 3. No region in the state is currently on Phase 5, the least restrictive phase, or Phase 1, the most restrictive. Authorities continue to urge all persons to remain at home except to perform essential tasks, and large group events are banned.
Minas Gerais: Authorities are following a three-tiered economic recovery plan. As of Dec. 4, Nordeste, and the macro-regions of Triangulo do Norte and Triangulo do Sul, are in the least restrictive Green Phase of recovery. Norte, Centro, Vale do Aco, Oeste, Centro Sul, Sudeste, and Sul are in the Green Phase of recovery, which places additional restrictions on some activities and establishments, including fairs, schools, cinemas, and parks. Nordeste, Leste, and Jequitinhonha are in the Red Phase of recovery, the most restrictive, in which only essential businesses are permitted to operate.

State and municipal officials could continue to modify their local restrictions, depending on local disease activity and government preparedness to respond to the disease. All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Abide by local health and safety measures. Confirm appointments and travel arrangements.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.