08 Mar 2021 | 06:06 PM UTC
Mauritania: COVID-19 restrictions in effect nationwide as of March 8 remain largely unchanged by comparison with late January /update 15
COVID-19-related restrictions in force in Mauritania as of March 8 largely the same as those in force during late January.
Event
As of March 8, restrictions in force in Mauritania as part of the government's efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 remain largely unchanged by comparison with those in effect during late January. Although the nationwide nightly curfew has been shortened by four hours to run 2400-0600 rather than the previous 2000-0600, schools and universities remain closed. Government facilities are still operating with a reduced number of civil service staff, and working hours remain altered. Hygiene and social distancing measures are mandatory at local markets. Moreover, the use of facemasks is compulsory in public and a ban on large gatherings, including religious events, is in place. The government has established a civil defense group to enforce the restrictions.
Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport (NKC) is open for limited international commercial passenger travel; domestic flights are operating. Land borders with Senegal and Mali are reportedly open; however, noncommercial overland travel with Morocco remains banned. Freight travel remains permitted at several border crossings but is subject to enhanced inspections. Travelers to Mauritania must present a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than five days before arrival. Travelers arriving also face screening measures and 10 days of quarantine; travelers who test positive or display symptoms of the disease will be quarantined at a state health facility.
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. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.
