15 Jan 2021 | 09:17 PM UTC
Serbia: Authorities maintain domestic coronavirus disease-related restrictions as of Jan. 15 /update 22
Serbia maintains domestic coronavirus disease-related restrictions as of Jan. 15; international entry restrictions remain in place.
Event
Authorities in Serbia are maintaining measures imposed to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as of Jan. 15. The following measures remain in place domestically:
Restaurants, bars, cafes, and other catering establishments, as well as shopping malls, clothing stores, and betting establishments, can operate daily from 0500-1700; these businesses will be closed on weekends. The same rules apply to hairdressing and beauty salons, as well as sporting and recreation facilities. Pharmacies and gas stations may be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Facemasks are mandatory in all enclosed public spaces, on public transport, and all outdoor spaces where social distancing of at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) cannot be observed.
Public gatherings of more than five people are prohibited; exceptions apply for schools, workplaces, shops, and similar establishments, where capacity will continue to be limited to one person per four square meters (43 square feet).
Individuals must work from home where possible.
Public transport services are limited to 50-percent capacity.
Additionally, authorities are maintaining certain international entry restrictions. Most visitors must present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test no older than 48 hours upon arrival. Travelers from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Montenegro, as well as foreign nationals transiting through Serbia, freight transporters and aircraft crews are exempt from this measure.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Local authorities are empowered to introduce stricter measures within their jurisdictions if infection rates warrant.
Advice
Heed all official advisories and remain nonconfrontational if stopped by authorities. Reconfirm all travel arrangements if traveling to, from, or via Serbia. Shipping disruptions may occur; consider delaying or rerouting shipments. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19.
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 health precautions.
