Gambia: Health officials maintaining COVID-19-related entry measures as of March 18 /update 23

Authorities in Gambia maintain mandatory quarantine for travelers from COVID-19 hotspots, March 18. Minimal domestic restrictions remain.

Event

Authorities in Gambia are maintaining international travel restrictions as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 as of March 18. All travelers must present evidence of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before arriving in the country. Travelers from countries where a new strain of the virus has been identified will be tested on arrival. These travelers face a mandatory quarantine at personal expense at a government facility pending a negative test. Travelers who test positive or do not provide the appropriate documents face quarantine for at least 14 days. Authorities have reopened land and sea borders.

Only minimal domestic restrictions are in effect in Gambia. Most nonessential businesses, including shops, hotels, motels, lodges, bars, restaurants, video clubs, museums, public swimming pools, nightclubs, and gyms, are operating. Nevertheless, all establishments and facilities that are open must adhere to strict hygiene and social distancing measures. Schools and other educational institutions are also open. Limited religious gatherings are permitted provided worshipers and houses of worship adhere to health protocols. The use of protective facemasks is mandatory in public spaces.

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

Reconfirm all travel plans. Follow all official directives. Abide by national health and safety measures. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.