Saint Kitts and Nevis: Variant strain of coronavirus disease prompts authorities to ban all British Airways travel to and from the UK until at least Jan. 16 /update 21

Event

Authorities in Saint Kitts and Nevis have extended a ban on all British Airways flights to and from the UK, until least Jan. 16. The measure, which was initiated on Dec. 26, was slated to expire on Jan. 2. The ban is in response to the spread of a variant strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the UK. Persons arriving from the UK must self-quarantine for 14 days.

The measures are in addition to other COVID-19-related travel protocols and internal measures. As of early January, authorities in St. Kitts and Nevis are continuing to enforce international travel protocols, including "vacation in place" requirements as part of the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) tourism recovery plan. For most travelers arriving in the country, internal movements will be fairly restricted for at least the first 14 days. The following travel protocols are in place as of Jan. 5:

Entry requirements for travelers arriving by air

Travelers must complete a Travel Authorization Form prior to arrival, and present proof of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result recorded 72 hours prior to travel.
Travelers must undergo a health screening at the airport, which includes a temperature check and a health questionnaire.
Travelers must download and use the Saint Kitts and Nevis COVID-19 contact tracing mobile application (EXMAPP) for the first 14 days.
For international travelers, during the first seven days of travel, visitors must "vacation in place" by remaining at their hotel or pre-approved accommodation property. Persons staying for 8-14 days must take another PCR-test on day seven; if the test is negative, the traveler may book select excursions and access select destination sites. For visits longer than 14 days, travelers must take another PRC test on day 14; if the test is negative, they may move freely on the islands. If a visitor's stay is shorter than 14 days, they will be asked to take a PCR-test before departing.
Returning nationals and residents must remain at their pre-approved accommodation for 14 days, or abide by the requirements set for international travelers if staying at an approved hotel.

Passengers in transit at Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (RLB) must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result upon arrival, wear a facemask at all times, undergo a health screening, and remain in the airport after clearing customs. In-transit passengers will not be permitted to leave the airport.

Entry requirements for travelers arriving by sea

Docking is permitted at the Deepwater Port, Port Zante, Christophe Harbor, New Guinea, Charlestown Pier, and Long Point Port.
Travelers must complete a Travel Authorization Form prior to arrival, submit a maritime declaration of health to the port health officer, and present a negative PCR test taken up to 72 hours prior to departing the last port of call or before departure if they are at sea longer than three days.
The prescribed quarantine time will be determined by the vessel's or ship's transit time from the last port of call to their arrival.
Yachts and pleasure vessels over 80 feet must quarantine at Christophe Harbor (Saint Kitts), while yachts and pleasure vessels less than 80 feet must quarantine Ballast Bay (Saint Kitts), and Pinney's Beach and Gallows (both Nevis).

Internally, most commercial activity has resumed, but businesses are subject to COVID-19 operating requirements. Businesses are required to ensure that all customers and staff maintain at least 1.8 meters (6 feet) distance from others, and to place markers indicating where customers should stand on lines to maintain this distance. Additional industry-specific hygiene mandates may be required in some sectors. Private parties, including on beaches, remain banned, and weddings and funerals are permitted only under strict regulations. All persons must wear protective face coverings when in any public place.

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. 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.