07 Mar 2022 | 09:26 AM UTC
Vanuatu: Authorities implementing restrictions on Efate Island as of March 7 due to COVID-19 activity
Vanuatu implementing restrictions in Efate Island and offshore islands as of March 7 amid COVID-19 activity. Plan for disruptions.
Event
Vanuatuan authorities have tightened restrictions as of March 7, amid confirmed community COVID-19 transmission. The government has raised the alert to Level 3, the highest level, for Efate Island, including the capital, Port Vila, and surrounding islands. An 18:00-06:00 curfew is in effect. Residents cannot leave home during overnight hours, though exceptions are possible for emergencies and personnel in essential industries. The government has reduced public services to critical functions, restricted public gatherings, and closed nonessential businesses on the affected islands. Residents must also wear facemasks in public. Public transport is operating under strict protocols. All other areas of the country remain at Alert Level 0.
Authorities have halted all domestic transport to and from Efate until further notice, though exemptions may be possible for cargo shipments. Significant flight and maritime disruptions are likely to and from Port Vila and will like impact transport connectivity throughout the country. Supply chain disruptions are possible in the event of a prolonged shutdown in the capital.
International Travel Restrictions
A public health emergency remains in effect through at least July 31, and officials have banned inbound commercial international flights and cruise ships during the period. However, international cargo flights continue. Authorities prohibit nonresidents from entering the country. Officials authorize some repatriation flights, but citizens from designated high-risk countries cannot enter until further notice. Fully vaccinated travelers from low- and medium-risk locations can enter the country with a COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours before departure. Officials require arriving passengers to quarantine for 14 days, with COVID-19 testing within 24 hours and on day 8 after arrival.
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. 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.
