Bosnia and Herzegovina: Coronavirus disease-related restrictions remain largely unchanged nationwide as of Jan. 14 /update 14

COVID-19-related restrictions in Bosnia and Herzegovina mostly unchanged as of Jan. 14; business and travel disruptions continue.

Event

As of Jan. 14, restrictions that had been implemented in Bosnia and Herzegovina to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) remain largely unchanged as compared with early December 2020. A 2300-0500 curfew remains in place in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBIH) entity; persons must stay at home during curfew hours, with the exception of those who perform essential work duties or are attending to health emergencies. Nonessential businesses, including restaurants, bars, and shopping malls, are open nationwide, subject to social distancing requirements. Public gatherings are limited to 30 people in FBIH, and 50 people in Republika Srpska; private gatherings, such as weddings and family events, are limited to 10 people. Individuals must wear a protective facemask when in public, including on public transport, and keep at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) away from members of different households.

All foreigners are permitted to enter the country provided they possess documentation showing they have tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test; the test must have been taken within 48 hours prior to arrival. Cabin crews, freight crews, diplomats, members of foreign militaries stationed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and passengers transiting through the country are not required to provide a negative test. Citizens of Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro, as well as immediate family members, can enter without a negative COVID-19 test, provided they are entering from their country of citizenship.

Any restrictions may be extended or otherwise amended with little to no advance notice, depending on disease activity in the country.

Advice

Follow all official instructions and remain nonconfrontational if stopped by authorities. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19. 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.

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.