Gambia: Officials amend COVID-19 entry measures from Jan. 9 /update 20

Authorities in Gambia introduce mandatory quarantine for travelers from COVID-19 hotspots Jan. 9. Minimal domestic restrictions in place.

Event

Authorities in Gambia announced the amendment of entry conditions for international travel as part of efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Jan. 5. From Jan. 9, all travelers must present evidence of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before arriving in the country. Travelers from hotspot countries as defined by the Ministry of Health must also undergo a sample collection and a test upon arrival. These travelers face a mandatory quarantine at personal expense likely at a government facility. Travelers who test positive may be quarantined until a negative test is achieved.

Travelers not from hotspot countries will be subject to mandatory self-isolation possibly at a location of choice. Self-isolation and quarantine periods may last up to two weeks and possibly beyond. Hotspot countries have been listed as Belgium, Chile, Denmark, France, India, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Lebanon, Norway, Pakistan, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, Turkey, the UK, and the US. This list could change with little notice. Authorities have reopened land and sea borders.

Only minimal domestic restrictions are in effect in the Gambia. Most nonessential businesses, including shops, hotels, motels, lodges, bars, restaurants, video clubs, museums, public swimming pools, nightclubs, and gyms, are operating. Nevertheless, all establishments and facilities that are open must adhere to strict hygiene and social distancing measures. Schools and other educational institutions are also open. Limited religious gatherings are permitted provided worshipers and houses of worship adhere to health protocols. The use of protective facemasks is mandatory in public spaces.

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

Reconfirm all travel plans. Follow all official directives. Abide by national health and safety measures. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. 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.