14 Mar 2022 | 04:37 AM UTC
Vanuatu: Authorities extend COVID-19 restrictions nationwide through at least March 24 /update 2
Officials extend restrictions across Vanuatu through at least March 24 amid COVID-19 activity. Plan for transport disruptions.
Event
Vanuatuan authorities have extended nationwide restrictions through at least March 24 amid ongoing COVID-19 activity. Alert Level 3, the highest level, measures are in effect throughout the country.
Domestic Measures
Residents must remain at home as much as possible and cannot leave home during an ongoing 18:00-06:00 nightly curfew; 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 most domestic inter-island transport, including to and from Efate. However, officials permit cargo shipments. Significant passenger transport disruptions are likely. 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.
