Slovenia: Authorities extend COVID-19 restrictions until Jan. 22 /update 23

Slovenia maintaining COVID-19-related restrictions until at least Jan. 22; international entry restrictions in effect.

Event

Authorities in Slovenia have extended nationwide restrictions on business and travel until at least Jan. 22 as part of efforts to control the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Officials are using a color-coded, three-tier system for assigning restrictions on travel from foreign countries based on their levels of COVID-19 activity. Travelers from locations designated as "green" - or epidemiologically safe - can enter Slovenia without restrictions. Travelers arriving from "orange" countries within the EU or Schengen Area can enter Slovenia without restrictions; travelers arriving from all other "orange" countries must self-isolate for 10 days on arrival. Travelers arriving from "red" counties must self-isolate for 10 days on arrival. The self-isolation requirement can be waived for travelers who, upon arrival, produce proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 within the previous 48-hours or who can produce evidence of a negative rapid antigen test taken within the EU within the previous 24 hours. As of Jan. 15, most countries, including Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain (except the Canary Islands), the UK, and the US, are on the red list.

Although domestic measures could vary in areas of low COVID-19 activity, the following nationwide measures remain in effect:

Movement outside the home is restricted 2200-0600, except for work, urgent family reasons, and emergencies.
All gatherings are suspended, with the exception of those by immediate family or members of the same household.
Most nonessential businesses are closed.
Public transport operations, with the exception of taxis, are suspended; buses hired by employers to transport workers to and from work may continue to operate.
Movement between municipalities and regions is prohibited except for work, healthcare, and emergency situations.
All public events and religious ceremonies are banned.

In addition, facemasks are mandatory in indoor and outdoor public spaces nationwide, unless engaged in individual exercise activities such as cycling and running. All businesses must measure the temperature of their employees before they enter the premises, sending those who have a fever home on sick leave. Authorities also recommend that staff work from home whenever possible.

Any restrictions may be extended or amended with little-to-no advance 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency 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.