Tunisia: Authorities extend 2000-0500 nightly curfew through March 7 to combat COVID-19 /update 38

Event

Authorities in Tunisia have extended a nationwide nightly 2000-0500 curfew through March 7 as part of the nation's efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19.

Authorities earlier issued orders requiring all travelers arriving in the country to undergo a two-week mandatory quarantine period at a government-approved hotel or specialized centers; the measure remains effective through Feb. 14. Moreover, under existing procedures, all travelers must provide a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result taken no more than 72 hours before travel to Tunisia, regardless of their point of origin. Travelers may take a second PCR test seven days after entering the country; those with a negative test result may exit quarantine.

Health officials also perform random COVID-19 testing at airports. Additionally, authorities require all travelers to download the E7mi tracking application upon arrival in the country.

Domestically, the following measures remain in force:

• Travel between governorates is prohibited, except for work purposes and medical emergencies.

• Protective face coverings or masks are mandatory in public areas.

• Public transportation continues to operate at 50-percent capacity to avoid overcrowding.

• Cafes and restaurants can only operate at 30-percent capacity.

• All people over age 65 are to remain at home.

• Restaurants and bars will remain closed except for takeaway services.

In response to COVID-19 variants, authorities have suspended all flights, including transit, between Tunisia and Australia, Brazil, Denmark, South Africa, and the UK until further notice.

Land, sea, and air borders have reopened with certain restrictions and requirements for all persons entering the country.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all business appointments and 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. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

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 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.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Tunisian COVID-19 Country Clarifications (Arabic)
Tunisian Ministry of Health (French)
E7mi Mobile Tracking Application (Arabic)