10 Dec 2020 | 11:30 AM UTC
Guinea-Bissau: Nationwide COVID-19 state of calamity expired Dec. 8 /update 14
Guinea-Bissau's COVID-19 state of calamity expired Dec. 8. Additional measures likely through December. International flights ongoing.
Event
As of Dec. 10, the nationwide state of calamity implemented as part of the government's efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has expired. The edict expired Dec. 8 and follows repeated extensions of the country's state of emergency and the gradual lifting of some of the associated restrictive measures. Further measures or an extension of the state of calamity is likely in the coming days.
International passenger flights have resumed; although flights are limited, humanitarian, medical, and cargo flights have continued. All travelers intending on entering the country will only be permitted entry with a negative COVID-19 test taken up to 72 hours before travel. Travelers without a test certificate will be quarantined for 14 days. Travelers who display symptoms, or have been in contact with other travelers who display symptoms, also risk isolation and quarantine measures. Land borders have been open since May.
The government has also announced some revisions to previously imposed internal restrictions:
Public transport can operate at 50-percent capacity.
The wearing of facemasks is mandatory in public.
Public gatherings must not exceed 25 participants.
Nightclubs, gyms, and cultural sites remain closed.
Inter-regional travel can continue with no restrictions.
All restrictions are subject to amendment, and relaxed measures could be reimposed at short notice.
Context
The measures taken by the government have been driven by the need to allow economic recovery in the wake 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. On March 11, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.
Advice
Reconfirm all transportation. Consider deferring nonessential travel to Guinea-Bissau for the duration of the restrictions. Follow all official directives. Abide by national health and safety measures. 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.
