Chile: Officials modify and extend coronavirus disease-related restrictions as of Jan. 8 /update 61

Event

As of Jan. 9, officials in Chile have amended national and local restrictions put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Under the modifications, all persons, including Chilean citizens and residents, must test negative for COVID-19 before entering the country.

Specific restrictions on movement vary by location and intensity based on local disease activity. A multiphase quarantine system remains in effect. In areas under Phase-1 quarantines, all individuals must remain in their homes every day unless they possess a safe-conduct pass. For those under Phase-2 quarantines, individuals must stay in their homes during weekends and holidays unless they have a safe-conduct pass. Some locations have advanced to Phase 3 or 4 with no quarantine mandates; in these areas, authorities continue to enforce nationwide restrictions and nonquarantine orders, such as capacity limits in businesses and school closures. Persons in areas under Phase-1 quarantine orders cannot travel to other regions in the country. Residents of areas under Phase-2 quarantine orders are permitted one trip to another location provided the destination is not under a Phase-1 quarantine order; the traveler must have his/her public health passport during the travel. Those in areas not under quarantine orders may not enter areas that are subject to quarantines.

Nationwide
The nightly 2200-0500 curfew remains in effect. Residents must remain in their homes during curfew hours. All persons over the age of 75 must stay in their homes; exceptions are in place for limited outings and depending on COVID-19 activity levels in the area. Events with more than 50 people remain prohibited. Nonessential businesses, including theaters, bars, and public gymnasiums, are closed until further notice. Restaurants may only operate for delivery or carryout services; seated dining remains banned.

Those traveling to the country must fill out a health questionnaire before departure. All persons arriving must present negative results from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before departure and purchase a health insurance policy that will cover at least USD 30,000 of COVID-19-related medical costs in Chile. Upon entrance, nonresident foreigners must quarantine for 10 days or the duration of their stay if they are in the country for fewer than 10 days. There is the possibility for a shorter quarantine period if individuals have negative results from a PCR test taken six days after their arrival.

All persons must fill out a form reporting on their health daily for their first 14 days in Chile. Until further notice, Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago will be the only airport accepting foreign nationals arriving from abroad.

Chile has suspended direct passenger flights to and from the UK. Travelers who have been in the UK within 14 days must quarantine for 14 days, even if they comply with all other travel requirements.

Individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 must quarantine for 14 days or until they no longer present symptoms, whichever is longer. Anyone who has had at least 15 minutes of face-to-face contact or prolonged exposure (two or more hours in a shared home, hotel, or office) with a person confirmed to have COVID-19 must quarantine for at least 14 days.

All persons must wear facemasks while in public, including parks, mass transit vehicles, and elevators. Health officials recommend medical-grade masks, but improvised or homemade coverings are permitted as long as they cover both the nose and mouth. Everyone must also adhere to social distancing standards by keeping at least one meter (three feet) away from others. Exceptions are in place for individuals sharing vehicles and residences or engaged in work or other activities where maintaining such a distance is impossible.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

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. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

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 Organization (WHO)
Resolutions on COVID-19 Measures
Required Travel Documents
Information on the Phased Restriction System