Gabon: COVID-19-related state of health emergency extended through January 2021 /update 11

Authorities in Gabon have extended the COVID-19-related state of health emergency through late January. Measures remain unchanged.

Event

Authorities in Gabon issued a statement Dec. 10 noting that the country's state of health emergency would be extended for a further 45 days. The declaration forms part of government efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Authorities have noted that the existing measures will remain in place.

International Travel

Land and sea borders remain closed to international travel; however, freight transport services continue, including those for food, oil, and gas.
Limited international flight services have resumed.
All passengers arriving in Gabon must present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) taken no more than five days before arrival. Travelers will also be required to have a compulsory COVID-19 test on arrival. Nationals and residents must remain in self-isolation at home until their test result is available. Non-nationals will also need to isolate for 48 hours. If the test is negative, travelers will be issued a certificate for 14 days, which can be renewed after another COVID-19 test is taken. If COVID-19 results are positive, travelers are requested to self-isolate until further instructions from the Gabonese health authorities are given.

Domestic Measures

A nightly 2000-0500 curfew remains in effect.
Residents must wear facemasks and adhere to other hygiene protocols.
Places of worship and bars remain closed; sporting events and other large gatherings remain suspended.
Public transportation has resumed nationwide, though some limits on passenger numbers remain in place. Hotels have also been allowed to reopen, as have restaurants with outdoor terraces. Some academic activities have resumed.

Additional restrictions are possible in the coming weeks, particularly if cases of COVID-19 rise.

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.

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.