Timor-Leste: Authorities extend border closure through Jan. 14 /update 15

Event

Timor-Leste has extended its border closure and suspension of entry for all local citizens and foreigners through Jan. 14 to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Exceptions are in place for diplomatic personnel, members of international organizations and bilateral cooperation agencies, petroleum sector workers, and medical emergencies. Transport of goods can continue operating.

The nationwide state of emergency remains in place through Feb. 1. Gatherings and events are limited to 10 participants, unless for people from the same household. Public transport can operate with protocols, including cleaning the vehicles daily. Officials continue to ban people who show symptoms of COVID-19, except for those in a medical emergency, from using public transport. Most businesses and services, including essential services like medical facilities and food markets, are open with safeguards. Authorities require people to wear facemasks, frequently sanitize their hands, and maintain a 1-meter (3-feet) distancing from one another when in public. The government is also encouraging people to avoid crowds.

Officials have also banned travel by land and sea between Oecusse and other municipalities through Jan. 18. Other localities may implement stricter protocols on top of the national government-mandated measures.

Context

COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV). Symptoms occur 1-14 days following exposure (average of 3-7 days). These symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, difficulty breathing, sometimes worsening to pneumonia and kidney failure - especially in those with underlying medical conditions. On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. 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. Plan for possible ground shipping and travel delays; seek alternative routes and shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo.

Exercise basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. 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

Timor-Leste Government Website
World Health Organization (WHO)