Togo: Authorities begin nightly curfew to combat COVID-19 Dec. 20 /update 10

Event

Authorities in Togo have imposed a nightly curfew across the country beginning Dec. 20. The curfew will run from 2200-0500 in Lome, with exceptions on Dec. 24, 25, and 31 when it will begin at 2300. Outside the capital, the curfew will occur Dec. 24, 25, 31, and Jan. 1 from 2300-0500. Accordingly, groups of more than 15 people are not permitted, and other restrictions remain in place.

Togo previously extended its state of health emergency through at least March 2021. The extension follows the end of the prior extension period Sept. 15. Measures already in place as part of the government's campaign against the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) will likely remain until further notice.

Under current measures, authorities continue to restrict movement into and out of Sokode, Tchamba, and Adjengre. A 2100-0500 curfew is in place in these areas and in Tchaoudjo and Sotouboua prefectures. Other restrictions that remain in place include:

All land borders remain closed; cargo and humanitarian transport is unaffected. Increased screening measures are in place at high-risk overland border crossing points with state security monitoring travel on major roads.
International and domestic flights have resumed; however, some regional flight routes remain suspended, as of mid-September.
Arriving passengers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than five days before boarding. Authorities require passengers to take another test on arrival at Lome-Tokoin International Airport (LFW). Travelers are likely to spend 24-48 hours under self-quarantine at a hotel or residence while awaiting test results. Persons who test positive for COVID-19 are required to enter a 14-21 day quarantine at the Eda-Oba Hotel in Lome, at their own expense.
Travelers must also download and install the contact tracing "Togo Safe" mobile application prior to arrival. This must remain active for the duration of their stay or for at least 30 days after arrival.
Arrival and departure travelers must fill out a traveler declaration form.
Exit testing is required within 72 hours before departure.
All residents must wear facemasks when in public.
Social distancing measures and restrictions are in effect for public gatherings.
All academic activities are suspended until further notice.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity. Health and sanitary checkpoints are also possible on major routes.

Context

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

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures due to the continued spread of the disease. 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Reconfirm all health and travel requirements well before your intended departure date from Togo.

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.