Paraguay: Authorities slightly ease some domestic COVID-19-related measures through at least Aug. 24 /update 40

Event

Authorities in Paraguay have issued orders slightly easing certain domestic COVID-19-related restrictions through at least Aug. 24; the move is part of the nation's plan to gradually lift controls associated with the pandemic. Under the new directives, Paraguay's existing nightly 01:00-05:00 curfew will remain in effect; however, many non-essential businesses may operate during non-curfew hours, provided they comply with certain public health mandates, such as social distancing, enhanced sanitation procedures, and ensuring proper ventilation, among other requirements. Certain designated essential businesses, facilities, and public agencies, including health care facilities, emergency services, public works, and home delivery services may operate 24 hours a day. Employers are no longer required to stagger shifts, exclude vulnerable groups from on-site work crews, or allow workers to telecommute. Moreover, non-essential public sector employees are required to work between the hours of 08:00-16:00.

Other restrictions as yet remain unchanged. All individuals must wear facemasks in indoor settings, along public roads, and on public transport. Indoor social events remain limited to no more than 100 attendees, while outdoor gatherings may host up to 150 people; these events cannot last longer than four hours. Gatherings in private homes can occur with up to 15 people. Cultural and religious events may host up to 150 attendees indoors and 200 outdoors.

Travel Restrictions
All travelers, including Paraguayan nationals, must complete a health form within the 24 hours prior to entering Paraguay. Additionally, all those over the age of 10 must show proof of a negative PCR, NAAT, or LAMP test taken within 72 hours prior to departing for Paraguay; antigen tests are not accepted. Also, all travelers must complete a five-day quarantine; the five-day period is considered to begin at the time that the individual takes his/her pre-travel COVID-19 test. A second PCR, NAAT, or LAMP test must be taken on day five. If this test is negative, the traveler may end the quarantine; if the test is positive, the individual must isolate for at least seven additional days.

Nonresident foreign nationals must also have health insurance covering COVID-19 treatment in order to enter Paraguay; this requirement does not apply to children under the age of 18 having at least one Paraguayan parent, or citizens of Mercosur member or associate nations.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Officials could enforce highly targeted and localized measures in some communities.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Traveler's Health Information form
Presidential Decrees (Spanish)
Restrictions Decree (Spanish)