Cambodia: Authorities close several border checkpoints with Thailand and extend gathering restrictions until at least Jan. 11 /update 17

Event

In response to an increase of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) activity, health officials in Cambodia have closed several border crossings with Thailand, imposed mandatory quarantines on all arrivals, and extended internal gathering and business controls until at least Jan. 11. As of Dec. 21, officials are only allowing crossings through the O’Smach, Doung, and Poipet checkpoints with Thailand. Authorities are also requiring all arrivals in the country, regardless of nationality or visa, to quarantine for 14 days at government-designated facilities; quarantine requirements had previously not been imposed on foreign diplomats and Cambodian nationals arriving overland from Thailand.

The government continues to ban nonessential gatherings; business and gathering controls are set to continue until at least Jan. 11. Some events involving fewer than 20 people may take place as long as organizers adhere to health protocols. Authorities have closed educational institutions. Clubs, cinemas, karaoke bars, and museums also remain closed. While most businesses can operate with health protocols, officials warned they would temporarily close venues that are found to have violated the controls. The government could declare a nationwide state of emergency if the local COVID-19 activity continues to worsen.

Hundreds of garment, footwear, and travel goods factories have suspended operations due to global economic disruptions. Business closures and suspensions have affected at least 150,000 workers, prompting protests in some areas. Additional demonstrations may occur at short notice.

Cambodian authorities have indefinitely suspended flights from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Most land border checkpoints remain closed, though cross-border travel with Vietnam for nontourism purposes has resumed with health protocols in place. Authorities may reintroduce or expand restrictions in the coming weeks if local COVID-19 activity increases.

Travel Restrictions
Cambodia continues to suspend the issuance of tourist visas and e-visas, visa-on-arrival services, and visa-free travel. Foreign nationals intending to visit Cambodia must obtain a visa from a diplomatic mission; officials require proof of medical insurance coverage of at least USD 50,000 and a medical certificate from local health authorities stating the traveler is free from COVID-19 issued no more than 72 hours before travel. Passengers must take a COVID-19 test upon arrival and undergo quarantines for 14 days at government-designated facilities. Officials will isolate travelers who test positive and all passengers on the same flight. Inbound foreign nationals must pay a USD 2,000 deposit to cover costs, including USD 100 for COVID-19 testing and USD 30 for a certificate stating that they are free from the virus; only limited exceptions are allowed.

Context

COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV). Symptoms occur 1-14 days following exposure (average of 3-7 days). These symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, difficulty breathing, sometimes worsening to pneumonia and kidney failure - especially in those with underlying medical conditions. On March 11, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.

Advice

Follow all official immigration and health screening instructions, particularly if traveling from affected locations. Allow additional time for immigration and health screenings at all ports of entry. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.

Exercise 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.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)