North Macedonia: Authorities announce the reopening of airports July 2 /update 13

Event

North Macedonian authorities announced that Ohrid Airport (OHD) was reopened on Thursday, June 2, a day after flights resumed from Skopje International Airport (SKP). Flights to and from both airports may be limited and Tepe Akfen Ventures (TAV) Macedonia, the managing company for both airports, has announced that several new requirements have been implemented, including the wearing of face masks at all times and compulsory social distancing measures.

The resumption of airport operations follows the reopening of North Macedonia's borders on June 26, amid the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. There is no longer a requirement for travelers arriving in North Macedonia to self-isolate, present a PCR test or quarantine upon entry.

The country's state of emergency has also been lifted and international transits through North Macedonia are possible.

As of Friday, July 3, health authorities have confirmed 6625 COVID-19 cases with 321 associated deaths in the country. Further spread of the virus is expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly, and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.