Algeria: Authorities extend nightly 2000-0500 curfew in 29 provinces through Jan. 31 due to coronavirus activity /update 27

Event

Authorities in Algeria have extended the nation's existing 2000-0500 nightly curfew in 29 provinces, including Algiers, Oran, Tipaza, and Constantine. The measure, which had been implemented to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), will remain in force through at least Jan. 31. Sports halls, cultural centers, beaches, and entertainment venues will be closed in these areas for the duration of the curfew.

Nevertheless, national rail services are operating, with passengers subject to body temperature scans before being allowed to board trains. Domestic flights are also operating, as are international repatriation flights as part of the country's efforts to return Algerian nationals who have been stranded abroad. Regular commercial international flights, however, remain suspended until further notice. Returning Algerian nationals and those foreign travelers allowed to enter the country must quarantine for seven days in a government-designated hotel followed by another seven days of quarantine at a location of the traveler's choosing.

Public transport is operating in all 48 of the nation's provinces; taxis and app-based ride-sharing services have also resumed operations, albeit under certain capacity limitations. However, a ban on public and private vehicle traffic between provinces remains in place on weekends. Freight transport continues to operate normally.

Authorities have allowed several types of businesses and services to reopen nationwide, including construction companies, real estate agencies, travel agencies, fruit markets, bakeries, hair salons, car rental companies, and government institutions. Restaurants have also reopened in provinces where officials have lifted lockdown measures. Residents must wear protective face coverings when in public, including in vehicles. Social distancing guidelines require that individuals stay at least 1 meter (3 feet) apart when interacting with each other.

The government has tasked the nation's various police departments with enforcing the measures that remain in place; violators could face fines or other criminal or administrative penalties. 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 business appointments and 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. 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 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)
Algeria Ministry of Health (French)
Algeria COVID-19 Updates (French/Arabic/English)
Air Algerie