Niger: Niger extends state of health emergency indefinitely as of April 27 /update 14

Authorities in Niger extend COVID-19 state of health emergency indefinitely as of April 27; some travel and domestic restrictions in effect.

Event

Authorities in Niger have indefinitely extended the country's state of health emergency as of April 27. Despite the extension, COVID-19-related restrictions in effect remain largely unchanged in comparison with those in force during early January.

International Travel
International air travel is permitted. Niamey's Diori Hamani International (NIM) and other airports in the country are open. Persons eligible for entry into Niger must present a negative result from COVID-19 test to authorities upon arrival. The test should be no more than 72 hours old. Screening on arrival is also conducted. Travelers arriving in Niger must also self-isolate for at least seven days; authorities may hold travelers' passports for the duration of the quarantine period. Persons who test negative for COVID-19 on the seventh day of the isolation period will have their passports returned and exit isolation. Travelers who test positive will be quarantined for 14 days, with a second test administered on the 13th day.

Persons leaving the country must produce a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours prior to their departure. The tests are conducted by Centre de Recherche Medicale et Sanitaire Niger at the traveler's expense. Land borders remain closed until further notice. Cargo and freight travel may continue with heightened screening measures in place.

Domestic Restrictions
Domestic travel restrictions have largely been relaxed. Facemasks are mandatory in public and social distancing of at least 1 meter (3 feet) is required. Large gatherings remain banned; night clubs, bars, and other entertainment venues are closed until further notice. All measures are subject to change at short notice.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm all travel arrangements and requirements. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

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.