Mayotte: Authorities maintain several international travel and nationwide domestic COVID-19 restrictions and measures, as of Jan. 19 /update 5

Mayotte maintains several COVID-19-related entry restrictions and domestic restrictions, as of Jan. 19; 1800-0400 curfew introduced.

Event

Authorities in Mayotte have tightened entry requirements and domestic restrictions as part of measures to contain the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), as of Jan. 19.

Under new restrictions announced Jan. 17, only travelers from mainland France and Reunion with a compelling family or personal reason, medical emergency, or essential professional reason that cannot be deferred are allowed to travel to Mayotte. All other forms of international travel are banned. Travelers arriving in the territory will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before boarding. Travelers will also be subject to a test on arrival, self-isolation for seven days, and a follow-up test seven days after arrival.

Other COVID-19-related measures have also been updated island-wide:

From 2359, Jan. 20, a 1800-0400 curfew will come into effect. All business will be closed during these hours excluding food deliveries.
Facemasks are compulsory in most public areas, businesses, and public transportation.
Public gatherings of more than six people are prohibited. Exceptions may be made for specific events.
Stringent health measures are in effect for restaurants, including allowing no more than six people to be seated at a single table and enforcement of social distancing of at least one meter (3.3 feet) between people in public areas.
Authorities continue to advise working from home where possible.

Officials placed the territory under a renewed state of health emergency Oct. 17 to contain the spread of COVID-19. Authorities could reimpose, extend, ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Individuals affected by the restrictions should consider postponing planned travel. 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. Reconsider and reconfirm non-emergency health appointments.

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.