28 Jan 2021 | 03:06 PM UTC
Guinea-Bissau: Nationwide COVID-19 state of calamity in place through Feb. 23 /update 16
Authorities upgrade Guinea-Bissau's COVID-19 state of alert to state of calamity through at least Feb. 23. International flights ongoing.
Event
Authorities in Guinea-Bissau have upgraded the country's response to the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) to a state of calamity through at least Feb. 23. A state of alert had been in place following the expiration of the initial state of calamity, Dec. 8. A range of measures remain in place to support this edict.
International passenger flights are ongoing; although flights are limited, humanitarian, medical, and cargo flights continue. All travelers intending on entering the country will only be permitted entry with a negative COVID-19 test taken up to 72 hours before travel. Travelers who display symptoms, or have been in contact with other travelers displaying symptoms, will be screened and tested and face isolation and quarantine measures of up to 14 days. Travelers without a test certificate may also face quarantine measures. Land borders are open.
The government has also announced some revisions to previously imposed internal restrictions:
Public transport can operate with capacity limitations.
The wearing of facemasks is mandatory in public.
Nightclubs and gyms are closed; social, recreational, or cultural events may not exceed 20 people.
A maximum of 50 people can attend funeral with social distancing measures in place.
Restaurants may operate with takeaway service.
Demonstrations, meetings, and conferences can resume outdoors may not exceed 25 people.
All restrictions are subject to amendment, and relaxed measures could be reimposed at short notice.
Advice
Reconfirm all transportation. Consider deferring nonessential travel to Guinea-Bissau for the duration of the restrictions. Follow all official directives. Abide by national health and safety measures. 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. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.
