04 Jan 2021 | 12:30 PM UTC
Albania: Authorities to reduce COVID-19-related curfew from Jan. 5 /update 16
Albania to ease COVID-19-related curfew hours from Jan. 5; business and travel disruptions continue.
Event
Authorities in Albania are to reduce the length of the nightly curfew introduced to combat the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) to 2200-0600 from Jan. 5 after it was temporarily increased over the Christmas holiday period. Residents may only leave their homes for essential work and health emergencies during curfew hours. All restaurants, bars, and cafes remain closed except for delivery services. Most nonessential businesses are permitted to open during non-curfew hours. Gatherings are limited to 10 people and facemasks are mandatory in all indoor and outdoor public spaces.
Authorities have suspended flights to and from the UK until at least Jan. 6 in response to a new strain of COVID-19 discovered primarily in the southeast of England. In addition, all passengers arriving in Albania from the UK as their origin point will have to self-isolate for 14 days upon entry. International flights and maritime transport continue to operate in Albania. Moreover, all land borders are open, and no mandatory quarantine requirement is in place except for travelers arriving from the UK.
Authorities could amend COVID-19 measures depending on changes in disease activity in the coming days and weeks.
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.
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.
