Togo: Togo ends COVID-19 nightly curfew with effect from Jan. 3 /update 11

Togo ends nightly curfew Jan. 3; domestic restrictions remain in place through at least March.

Event

A nationwide nightly curfew, implemented as part of measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), ended Jan. 3; it is currently unclear whether the end of the nationwide restriction applies to Adjengre, Sokode, and Tchamba, where a 2100-0500 curfew had been in place since August.

A state of health emergency remains in place through at least March. All residents must wear facemasks when in public. Social-distancing measures and restrictions are in effect for public gatherings. Some academic activities have reportedly resumed. Other measures already in place as part of the government's campaign will likely remain until further notice.

International Travel
All land borders remain closed, unless special authorization is granted; cargo and humanitarian transport are unlikely to be affected. Limited International and domestic flights have resumed. 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.

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. Arriving and departing travelers must fill out a traveler declaration form. Exit testing is required within seven days before departure.

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.

Context

COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV). Symptoms occur 1-14 days following exposure (average of 3-7 days). These symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, difficulty breathing, sometimes worsening to pneumonia and kidney failure - especially in those with underlying medical conditions. On March 11, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.

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.