Honduras: Officials to enforce COVID-19-related nationwide curfew through Jan. 17 /update 33

Honduras imposes nationwide 2100-0500 curfew due to COVID-19 until Jan. 17. Other restrictions, travel protocols, remain.

Event

As of Jan. 12, authorities in Honduras are enforcing a newly implemented curfew 2100-0500 nightly, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). During curfew hours, only heavy cargo transport and persons with safe passage authorization are allowed outside; everyone else must remain in their homes. The measure will continue until at least Jan. 17.

Officials will continue to strictly enforce health, sanitization, and other operating protocols at commercial establishments. All banks, supermarkets, shopping centers, and shops must remain limited to 50 percent operating capacity, nationwide. Children are now prohibited from entering shops. Previously, authorized businesses were ordered to ensure that customers have covered their mouths and noses, use hand sanitizer, and practice social distancing; these requirements will likely continue for an extended period. All persons are required to wear protective facemasks in public. Bars, discotheques, and convention centers are required to remain closed; several other establishments that encourage large group gatherings also remain closed.

International Travel
Authorities reopened the country's airports and land border crossings to international travel following an extended closure but are enforcing enhanced entry requirements for all travelers. All travelers must present a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before departure for Honduras and a completed pre-arrival (prechequeo) travel form. Passengers departing via the land borders are also required to complete the online prechequeo form. Travelers may be subjected to additional COVID-19 testing upon arrival. The use of a facemask is required at all times while traveling.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on local disease activity.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. 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.