Tajikistan: COVID-19 measures remain in place nationwide, as of Jan. 15; however, authorities resume regular flights with Uzbekistan /update 7

Tajikistan to re-establish passenger flights with Uzbekistan from Jan. 15; other COVID-19 international, domestic restrictions in effect.

Event

Authorities have announced that regular passenger fights connecting with Uzbekistan, which were suspended in March 2021, as part of measures to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), will resume from Jan. 15. Limited international flights are now operating, including services connecting Dushanbe International Airport (DYU) with Dubai (DXB), United Arab Emirates, Frankfurt (FRA), Germany, Istanbul (IST), Turkey, and Moscow Domodedovo (DDE), Russia. Other international entry restrictions remain in effect; the land borders with Afghanistan, China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan are currently closed, though some border crossings with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan are open for freight vehicles.

All international travelers must undergo COVID-19 screening, including a temperature check, on arrival and departure. All foreign nationals entering the country must self-isolate for 14 days, though this does not apply to diplomats, freight drivers, and flight crew.

Domestically, nonessential businesses, including shopping centers, markets, and restaurants are operating subject to social-distancing mandates. Some hotels are closed due to low demand. Facemasks are mandatory in public places, including in vehicles and on public transport.

All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice in response to government reviews.

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.