Madagascar: COVID-19 restrictions remain in place nationwide as of March 4 /update 21

Authorities in Madagascar maintaining COVID-19 restrictions as of March 4. International flights suspended.

Event

As of March 4, Madagascar's authorities are maintaining several COVID-19 restrictions nationwide in continued efforts to curb its spread, including the suspension of all routine international flights until further notice. The following measures remain in place:

International Travel:

Reports indicate that all routine international flights, including those from the UK, the US, the EU, and parts of southern Africa are suspended until further notice.
Repatriation flights and those transiting through Madagascar from countries not mentioned are permitted.
Those who enter the country will need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.
All passengers entering the country are subject to a COVID-19 test and a quarantine period of 14 days at their own expense.
Testing is required upon entry to Ivato International Airport (TNR). Travelers are requested to quarantine until test results are known. If the test is positive, travelers are required to visit a state-mandated facility for treatment. The exact number of days is unclear.
Sea borders remain closed until further notice.

Domestic Restrictions:

All shops, restaurants, places of worship, and recreational centers are permitted to operate without significant restrictions, as long as social distancing and sanitization methods are followed.
Domestic flights are permitted.
Inter-city and inter-state travel are permitted.
All public transport is permitted.
Gatherings are permitted with no more than 200 participants.
The wearing of a protective facemask remains mandatory in public spaces.
All domestic air travelers will be subject to a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no less than 48 hours before departure. Only those with a negative test result will be permitted to board flights.

Authorities could change COVID-19 restrictions with little-to-no warning.

Context

Madagascar has enforced and relaxed several measures in recent months to contain the spread of COVID-19. Authorities are likely to continue to reintroduce sporadic, highly targeted measures in response to local COVID-19 outbreaks. Such measures could apply to regions, cities, neighborhoods, or specific facilities.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. 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.