Zimbabwe: COVID-19-related restrictions remain in place nationwide, as of Dec. 30 /update 9

Authorities maintain COVID-19-related restrictions across Zimbabwe as of Dec. 30. International air travel permitted.

Event

As of Dec. 30, authorities in Zimbabwe are maintaining several restrictions to contain the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

International

Air travel has resumed.
Land borders are closed except for cargo transport and other authorized persons, including tourists.
Travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test which was obtained within 48 hours prior to arrival. Persons without a test result or displaying COVID-19 symptoms may be denied entry. Travelers are required to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. Persons testing positive for COVID-19 on arrival are subject to a 14-day quarantine at a government-approved facility.
Persons departing the country must present a negative COVID-19 test obtained within 48 hours of departure.
Returning residents must present a negative COVID-19 test obtained within 48 hours prior to arrival or get tested upon arrival and await the outcome of the results at a government facility.

Domestic

A 2000-0600 nationwide curfew is in effect.
Facemasks are mandatory in public.
Domestic public transport is limited.
Tourists may travel from the port of entry to a designated tourist facility.
Gatherings of more than 100 people are restricted.
All persons must remain indoors, except when obtaining essential provisions or health services.

All regulations are subject to change at short notice.

Context

Zimbabwe's travel restrictions and preventive measures correspond with similar actions other governments are taking globally in response to the spread of COVID-19. 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 World Health Organization (WHO) declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.

Advice

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

Emphasize 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.