Serbia: Authorities tighten domestic coronavirus disease-related restrictions effective December 4 /update 21

Event

Authorities in Serbia have tightened a number of domestic restrictions implemented to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Effective Dec. 4, the following measures will be in place:

• Restaurants, bars, cafes, and other catering establishments, as well as shopping malls, clothing stores, and betting establishments, can operate daily from 0500-1700; these businesses will be closed on weekends. The same rules apply to hairdressing and beauty salons, as well as sporting and recreation facilities. Pharmacies and gas stations may be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

• Facemasks are mandatory in all enclosed public spaces, on public transport, and all outdoor spaces where social distancing of at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) cannot be observed.

• Public gatherings of more than five people are prohibited; exceptions apply for schools, workplaces, shops, and similar establishments, where capacity will continue to be limited to one person per four square meters (43 square feet).

• Individuals must work from home where possible.

• Public transport services are limited to 50-percent capacity.

Travelers arriving in Serbia from Bulgaria, Croatia, North Macedonia, and Romania must produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival; this requirement does not apply to Serbian citizens. Travelers from all other destinations are able to enter the country without restriction. All permanent residents of Serbia returning from abroad must complete an online COVID-19 self-assessment no more than 24 hours after entering the country. Upon completion, some residents may be instructed to report to a COVID-19 clinic or hospital; others will be required to complete a second assessment 10 days after returning from abroad.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Local authorities are empowered to introduce stricter measures within their jurisdictions if infection rates warrant.

Advice

Heed all official advisories and remain nonconfrontational if stopped by authorities. Reconfirm all travel arrangements if traveling to, from, or via Serbia. Shipping disruptions may occur; consider delaying or rerouting shipments. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19.

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 health precautions.

Resources

COVID-19 Self-Assessment
Government of Serbia
World Health Organisation (WHO)