14 Jan 2021 | 12:48 PM UTC
Burkina Faso: COVID-19 restrictions remain in place nationwide as of Jan. 14 /update 10
Authorities maintain COVID-19 restrictions across Burkina Faso as of Jan. 14. Domestic and international air services operating.
Event
As of Jan. 14, longstanding measures introduced to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) remain in effect in Burkina Faso.
International Travel
International commercial flights continue to operate from Thomas Sankara International Airport (OUA) and Bobo Dioulasso Airport (BOY). All travelers arriving in Burkina Faso must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than five days before arrival. Travelers without such proof must submit to a test at the port of entry and face up to 14 days of quarantine at home or in a hotel of choice if positive. Authorities also perform temperature checks at airports. Travelers departing the country must also present negative results from COVID-19 test taken no more than five days before travel. Land borders remain closed; essential cargo transport continues but can be subject to delays.
Domestic Measures
Domestic flights are operating, with Air Burkina (2J) running at least two flights a day between OUA and BOY. All persons must wear facemasks in public nationwide. While no COVID-19-related curfews remain in effect, security-related curfews and associated states of emergency not connected with disease activity are still in force in the Est, Sahel, Boucle de Mouhoun, Nord, Haut-Bassins, and Centre-Est regions.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.
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.
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.