Mayotte: Authorities increase COVID-19 restrictions on Petite Terre and in Boueni since Jan. 28 /update 6

Mayotte tightens restrictions on Petite Terre island and in town of Boueni, Jan. 28, as part of COVID-19 response; other measures remain.

Event

Authorities in Mayotte have tightened domestic restrictions as part of measures to contain the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Since Jan. 28, all businesses are closed, except for food shops and pharmacies, on the island of Petite Terre and the town of Boueni. Only essential travel for food purchases and unavoidable medical appointments are allowed. Individuals who must travel will require government-issued certificates. Travel to and from these areas must only be conducted in exceptional circumstances.

Under previous restrictions announced Jan. 17, only travelers from mainland France and Reunion with a compelling family or personal reason, medical emergency, or essential professional reason that cannot be deferred are allowed to travel to Mayotte. All other forms of international travel are banned. Travelers arriving in the territory will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before boarding. Travelers will also be subject to a test on arrival, self-isolation for seven days, and a follow-up test seven days after arrival.

Other COVID-19-related measures have also been updated island-wide:

An 1800-0400 curfew is in effect. All business will be closed during these hours, excluding food deliveries.
Facemasks are compulsory in most public areas, businesses, and public transportation.
Public gatherings of more than six people are prohibited. Exceptions may be made for specific events.
Stringent health measures are in effect for restaurants, including allowing no more than six people to be seated at a single table and enforcement of social distancing of at least one meter (3.3 feet) between people in public areas.
Authorities continue to advise working from home where possible.

Officials placed the territory under a renewed state of health emergency Oct. 17 to contain the spread of COVID-19. Authorities could reimpose, extend, ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Individuals affected by the restrictions should consider postponing planned travel. 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 non-emergency health appointments.