Central African Republic: Authorities maintain minimal COVID-19-related restrictions as of Dec. 24 /update 3

Authorities maintain minimal COVID-19-related restrictions across CAR as of Dec. 24. International air travel ongoing.

Event

As of Dec. 24, authorities in the Central African Republic (CAR) are maintaining minimal restrictions to contain the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Passenger flights at Bangui-M'poko International Airport (BGF) in Bangui are ongoing. However, travelers arriving in CAR and showing signs of infection may be required to take a COVID-19 test. The Pasteur Institute is the primary COVID-19 testing facility in the country. Persons entering CAR from locations with local transmission of COVID-19 are required to self-isolate for 14 days; however, US citizens are reportedly required to quarantine for 21 days. Most of the country's land borders are reportedly open; however, delays at crossings are likely due to enhanced screening measures.

Minimal domestic restrictions remain in place following the easing of measures in recent months; social distancing measures, including the use of protective facemasks, is compulsory in all public spaces and public transportation, although this measure is not strictly enforced. Non-contact greetings for social interactions are reportedly being enforced in Bangui.

All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice in response to government reviews and may receive updates or extensions in the coming days.

Context

Numerous countries have adopted several restrictions to halt the spread of COVID-19. Countries that neighbor CAR have also closed borders and restricted flights to halt the spread of the disease in recent days. The viral respiratory disease is caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV). Symptoms occur 1-14 days following exposure (average of 3-7 days). These symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, difficulty breathing, sometimes worsening to pneumonia and kidney failure - especially in those with underlying medical conditions. The WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic March 11.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

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.