Lesotho: Authorities maintain some COVID-19 measures as of Jan. 2 /update 9

Officials in Lesotho maintain some COVID-19 measures as of Jan. 2. International travel has resumed.

Event

Lesotho maintains some measures to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as of Jan. 2.

International Travel

International travel has resumed. Air links between Maseru (MSU) and Johannesburg (JNB) are open, but flights are limited. Flight times are subject to change depending on South Africa's COVID-19 regulations.
The land border crossing points at Maseru Bridge, Caledonspoort (Butha Buthe), Maputsoe Bridge, Qacha's Nek Bridge, and Van Rooyen's Gate (Mafeteng) are open.
Travelers entering or exiting Lesotho will need to present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test COVID-19 test, taken no longer than 72 hours before arrival or departure.
Persons showing COVID-19 symptoms may be requested to self-isolate or may be quarantined at a government facility.

Domestic Measures

Indoor gatherings are limited to 50 people and outdoor gatherings to 100 people.
All outdoor sports are permitted with no spectators.
Public transport has been permitted to operate at full capacity, provided that all involved adhere to social distancing measures.
Cafes and restaurants are open 0800-1900, though they must avoid overcrowding and ensure frequent cleaning. Alcohol is restricted.
The wearing of protective facemasks is mandatory in all public places.
Businesses and schools are allowed to reopen.

Regulations are subject to change at short notice. Travel to and from Lesotho is impossible without traveling via South Africa. South Africa's COVID-19 regulations are regularly updated and could impact travel to and from Lesotho.

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 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.

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.