Mauritius: Authorities impose nationwide lockdown through at least March 25 due to COVID-19 activity /update 17

Authorities in Mauritius impose COVID-19-related lockdown through at least March 25; essential services to remain open.

Event

Authorities in Mauritius have issued orders imposing a nationwide lockdown following an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases. The measure will enter into force starting at 0600 March 10 and remain in effect through at least March 25. Under the new directive, all educational institutions and non-essential businesses will close; certain essential businesses, such as filling stations and supermarkets, will close on March 10 but reopen on March 11 with strict sanitary measures in place. Essential services, including police, health services, fire services, pharmacies, retail distribution chains, airports, and seaports will remain open through the end of the lockdown. It remains unclear precisely what movement restrictions, if any, will be imposed on the general public.

In addition to the new lockdown order, all incoming commercial passenger flights remain suspended through mid-March; the suspension prohibits travelers from entering or transiting the Republic of Mauritius, including the island of Rodrigues. Flights departing Mauritius and Rodrigues are not impacted.

Approved travelers to Mauritius must present a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than seven days before arrival in the country. Upon entering Mauritius, travelers must also take at least three COVID-19 tests - one on arrival, a second on day seven of their stay, and the third test on day 14. Travelers who test positive will be transferred to a government-run medical facility. All travel bookings are centralized at the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) website. Quarantine remains mandatory through May 31 for all persons entering the country.

Persons who may have been exposed to COVID-19 are subject to a 14-day quarantine at a government-approved facility. Individuals must wear facemasks on public transportation.

Advice

Reconfirm all travel arrangements. 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.