Portugal: Authorities ban flights with Brazil effective Jan. 29-Feb. 14 to curb the spread of new COVID-19 variant /update 29

Portugal to suspend flights with Brazil Jan. 29-Feb. 14 to stem spread of new COVID-19 strain; other restrictions remain in place.

Event

Portugal plans to suspend most flights with Brazil Jan. 29-Feb. 14 in an effort to stem the spread of a new strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). During this time frame, only humanitarian and repatriation flights will be permitted. All persons allowed to travel to Portugal from Brazil must be in possession of a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure and must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. An indefinite suspension of all but humanitarian and repatriation flights with UK has also been in effect since Jan. 23 due to the new virus strain.

Aside from the new directive, all earlier implemented international entry restrictions remain in effect in Portugal. Authorities permit entry for travelers from the EU and Schengen Area countries, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Uruguay; these individuals do not require a COVID-19 test unless their final destination is the Azores or Madeira. Travel from other countries remains prohibited, except for limited essential reasons, including EU citizens and residents returning home, reuniting with family, and commuting for essential work or study. All such arrivals are required to submit a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before boarding; however, Portuguese nationals and residents may arrange to take the test on arrival at their own expense.

Domestically, a nationwide lockdown and state of emergency are in place through at least Jan. 30 due to rising COVID-19 activity. Under the measures, residents must stay at home, except essential reasons, such as acquiring basic goods or going to work if telecommuting is not possible, among other things. Nonessential businesses remain closed. Dining establishments are open for delivery or carryout services. All events, except religious ceremonies, are prohibited.

Authorities classify each municipality as being at one of four COVID-19 risk levels - extremely high, very high, high, or moderate - based on local disease activity. More than 150 municipalities are listed as extremely high or very high risk, including Lisbon and Porto. In addition to the nationwide measures, these municipalities are also subject to a 2300-0500 curfew on weekdays and a 1300-0500 curfew on weekends and public holidays.

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 disposable tissues, 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.