Togo: Authorities maintain several COVID-19-related international movement restrictions and curfew in places, as of Jan. 23 /update 12

Togo maintains a closure of its land border, Jan. 23. Movement restrictions in several areas, including the northern Savanes Region.

Event

Officials maintain several restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as of Jan. 23. A state of health emergency is in effect through March 15.

Domestic measures

The northern Savanes region is under an indefinite lockdown. A 2000-0500 curfew is in place. The movement of goods is unaffected.
Movement and travel restrictions are reportedly in effect in Sokode, Tchamba, and Adjengre.
A curfew of 2100-0500 is reportedly in place in Tchaoudjo, Tchamba and Sotouboua.
Facemasks are mandatory in public areas for persons five years and older.
There are restrictions on access to beaches.

International Travel

Land borders are closed. The transport of cargo and humanitarian traffic is likely unaffected.
International flights have resumed.
All persons arriving in the country must complete an online immigration and health form.
Arriving passengers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than seven days before boarding.
Authorities require passengers to take another test on arrival at Lome-Tokoin International Airport (Gnassingbe Eyadema International Airport, LFW). Travelers are likely to spend 24-48 hours under self-quarantine at a hotel or residence while awaiting test results. Persons who test positive for COVID-19 are required to enter a 14-21 day quarantine at the Eda-Oba Hotel in Lome, at their own expense.
Passengers in transit who remain in LFW's international zone are exempt from a test on arrival.
Travelers must also download and install the contact-tracing "Togo Safe" mobile application prior to arrival. This must remain active for the duration of their stay or for at least 30 days after arrival. Failure to download the application could result in a 14-day quarantine.
Departing travels from Lome must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than seven days before leaving.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity. Health and sanitary checkpoints are also possible on major routes.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures due to the continued spread of the disease. 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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Reconfirm all health and travel requirements well before your intended departure date from Togo.

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.