Tajikistan: COVID-19 entry restrictions in effect as of Dec. 17 /update 6

Tajikistan maintaining international entry restrictions as of Dec. 17 due to COVID-19; domestic social-distancing mandates in effect.

Event

Authorities in Tajikistan are maintaining international entry restrictions as of Dec. 17 as part of measures to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The land borders with Afghanistan, China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan are currently closed, though some border crossings with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan are open for freight vehicles. Limited international flights are operating, including services connecting Dushanbe International Airport (DYU) with Dubai (DXB), United Arab Emirates, Frankfurt (FRA), Germany, Istanbul (IST), Turkey, and Moscow Domodedovo (DDE), Russia. All international travelers must undergo COVID-19 screening, including a temperature check, on arrival and departure. All foreign nationals entering the country must self-isolate for 14 days, though this does not apply to diplomats, freight drivers, and flight crew.

Domestically, nonessential businesses, including shopping centers, markets, beauty parlors, and restaurants are operating subject to social-distancing mandates. Some hotels are closed due to low demand. Facemasks are mandatory in public places, including in vehicles and on public transport.

All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice in response to government reviews.

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.