Portugal: Authorities ban flights with the UK from Jan. 23 /update 28

Portugal prohibits flights with the UK from Jan. 23 to stem spread of variant COVID-19 strain; some other restrictions tightened.

Event

Portugal will indefinitely prohibit most flights with the UK from Jan. 23 in an effort to stem the spread of a variant strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) first discovered in that country and now spreading throughout Portugal. Humanitarian flights and repatriation flights will be permitted. Separately, authorities have ordered the immediate closure of all educational facilities, including daycare centers, for at least 15 days starting Jan. 22.

Authorities in Portugal previously announced a nationwide lockdown and state of emergency 0001 Jan. 15-2359 Jan. 30 due to rising COVID-19 activity. Under the measures, residents have to stay at home, except to acquire essential goods, attend work if telecommuting is not possible, and participate in electoral campaign-related work ahead of the Jan. 24 presidential election, among others. Nonessential businesses will remain closed. Food establishments may remain open to facilitate delivery or takeaway. All events, except religious ceremonies and those related to the election campaign, are prohibited.

Authorities classify each municipality as extremely high, very high, high, and moderate COVID-19 risk levels 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 were also subject to a 2300-0500 curfew on weekdays and a 1300-0500 curfew on weekends and public holidays.

Authorities in Portugal permit entry for travelers from the EU and Schengen Area countries, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Uruguay; these arrivals 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 to 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.

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.