Micronesia: Authorities implementing COVID-19 measures nationwide as of Aug. 1

Event

Authorities in Micronesia have instituted restrictions nationwide as of Aug. 1 amid growing COVID-19 activity in Pohnpei and Kosrae states. The government requires people to wear facemasks in public and adhere to six feet of physical distance in public. Officials also require people that test positive for COVID-19 to remain at home, though the self-quarantine period remains unclear and could vary. Officials continue encouraging people to stay at home except for essential reasons, like purchasing food or attending work. Additional measures are possible in states and may vary.

Businesses are operating. However, reports indicate that staffing shortages have impacted some organizations, making business or public service disruptions possible. Price gouging is also reportedly occurring for some essential times, such as facemasks.

Interstate travel is available for fully vaccinated travelers. Officials also require a negative rapid antigen test result to travel between a state with COVID-19 activity and a state without any cases. However, officials have halted most flights to Chuuk State; reduced capacity flights will take place Aug. 2, 4, and 22. The Chuuk State government requires all inbound passengers to quarantine for 14 days.

International Travel Restrictions
The government permits entry for fully vaccinated individuals; people ages 18 and above must also have received a booster dose within five months of the second dose, if applicable. Exemptions are possible with medical clearance, but officials could seek additional evidence. Almost all travelers must obtain a negative PCR test result within 72 hours before departure; recently recovered cases that test positive can enter if the result has a CT value of 34 or higher and a doctor provides a recovery certificate. Officials will only require recently recovered cases to obtain a negative RAT result within 72 hours of departure if all four Micronesian states have confirmed community COVID-19 transmission. Arrivals must also complete a Health Clearance Form.

Entrants must self-quarantine for five days after arrival. However, authorities permit limited, essential movements; all people in public during the quarantine period must always wear a facemask.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all transport arrangements and required travel documents as a precaution. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.

Resources

Federated States of Micronesia President's Office
Pohnpei State Governor
Kosrae Public Information Office Facebook