Gabon: Officials adjust the COVID-19-related curfew to 2000-0500 from Jan. 25 /update 13

Event

Authorities in Gabon have adjusted the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) nighttime curfew to start two hours earlier from 2200-0500 to 2000-0500 from Jan. 25 due to rising infection rates. Officials have also indicated that several restrictions, including those related to the curfew, gatherings, social distancing, and the wearing of facemasks, will be more strictly enforced. Security checks will be established and enhanced, and monetary fines will be issued for non-compliance. A state of health emergency is in place.

Domestic measures

• A nationwide curfew 2000-0500.

• Social gatherings are limited to 30 people.

• Facemasks are mandatory in public areas and on public transportation.

• Travel in and out of Libreville is permitted so long as a negative COVID-19 test was taken no longer than 14 days before entry or departure is provided. It is not clear if the same regulations apply for travel elsewhere in the country.

• There are capacity limits on public transport. Taxis may carry only three passengers.

• Bars and nightclubs are closed.

International travel

• International flights are limited to three flights per airline a week.

• Land and sea borders are closed. Cargo transportation and essential services are permitted entry with prior authorization.

• Foreigners intending to enter the country require a letter of permission. All passengers must provide a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) taken no longer than five days before arrival.

• All passengers must take a compulsory COVID-19 test upon arrival at Libreville International Airport (LBV). Passengers must then quarantine for 48 hours while awaiting test results.

• If the test is negative, travelers will be issued a certificate for 14 days, which can be renewed after another COVID-19 test is taken. If COVID-19 results are positive, travelers must self-isolate until further instructions from the Gabonese health authorities are given.

• Passengers traveling from the UK must gain authorization from the Gabonese Ministry of Foreign Affairs before traveling to Gabon before entry. Travelers can do this via email.

• A negative COVID-19 test is requested prior to departure from the country; however, the time frame of this will be decided by the destination country.

Additional restrictions are possible in the coming weeks, particularly if cases of COVID-19 rise or authorities observe non-compliance of existing regulations.

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.

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.

Resources

World Health Organisation (WHO)
Gabon COVID-19 Portal
Gabon COVID-19 (Twitter)