10 Mar 2022 | 08:35 AM UTC
Vanuatu: Authorities enforcing COVID-19 restrictions nationwide as of March 10 /update 1
Vanuatu implementing restrictions nationwide as of March 10 amid COVID-19 activity. Plan for disruptions.
Event
Vanuatuan authorities have expanded restrictions nationwide as of March 10 due to the continued spread of COVID-19. Alert Level 3, the highest level, measures are in effect throughout the country. Officials are extending the controls every 48 hours amid contact tracing efforts.
Domestic Measures
An 18:00-06:00 curfew is in effect. Residents cannot leave home during overnight hours, though exceptions are possible for emergencies and personnel in essential industries. The government has reduced public services to critical functions, restricted public gatherings, and closed nonessential businesses. Residents must also wear facemasks in public. Public transport is operating under strict protocols.
Authorities have halted all domestic transport to and from Efate until further notice, though exemptions may be possible for cargo shipments. Significant transport disruptions are likely to and from cities and between Port Vila, Shefa Province, and other parts of the country. Reports indicate that residents have also erected roadblocks in several locations; officials have asked locals to lift the barriers to permit delivery of essential goods to urban areas. Supply chain disruptions are possible in the event of a prolonged shutdown.
International Travel Restrictions
A public health emergency remains in effect through at least July 31, and officials have banned inbound commercial international flights and cruise ships during the period. However, international cargo flights continue. Authorities prohibit nonresidents from entering the country. Officials authorize some repatriation flights, but citizens from designated high-risk countries cannot enter until further notice. Fully vaccinated travelers from low- and medium-risk locations can enter the country with a COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours before departure. Officials require arriving passengers to quarantine for 14 days, with COVID-19 testing within 24 hours and on day eight after arrival.
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. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.
