Gambia: Minimal COVID-19 restrictions in place nationwide as of Dec. 9 /update 18

Authorities in Gambia maintain minimal COVID-19-related restrictions as of Dec. 9. State of emergency has expired.

Event

As of Dec. 9, Gambian authorities have eased restrictions as part of efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The related nationwide state of emergency expired Sept. 17.

Domestic Measures
Authorities have ended the nationwide nightly curfew, and all markets are allowed to operate. Nonessential shops have also resumed regular operations, including hotels, motels, lodges, bars, restaurants, video clubs, museums, public swimming pools, nightclubs, and gyms. All businesses that reopen must adhere to strict hygiene and social distancing measures. Schools and educational institutions have also been allowed to reopen. Limited religious gatherings are permitted, provided health protocols are adhered to. The use of protective facemasks is mandatory in public spaces.

International Travel
Authorities have also reopened land and sea borders. All travelers must present evidence of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test obtained no more than 72 hours before arriving in the country. Travelers who fail to produce a valid test certificate will be quarantined at a state facility at personal cost.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Context

Gambian authorities have eased the country's restrictions as local transmission rates have reportedly stabilized. Gambia's restrictions are similar to actions taken by other governments globally in recent months in response to the spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease 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.

Advice

Reconfirm all travel plans. Follow all official directives. Abide by national health and safety measures. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

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.