20 Jan 2021 | 06:07 PM UTC
Somalia: Authorities maintain coronavirus disease restrictions as of Jan. 20 /update 8
Officials in Somalia maintain existing coronavirus disease-related measures as of Jan. 20; domestic and international flights ongoing.
Event
As of Jan. 20, authorities in Somalia are maintaining measures and restrictions put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
International Travel
International and domestic flights are operating. Incoming travelers arriving at Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) require a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 96 hours before arrival. Departing passengers must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken a maximum of 72 hours before travel. In Somaliland, travelers arriving at Egal International Airport (HGA) must present a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 96 hours before arrival. Passengers with no test result may have to spend 14 days in quarantine in a government-approved facility at their own expense. Temperature checks will also be performed at the airport. Land borders between Somaliland and Djibouti have reopened and the Port of Berbera is operational.
Domestic Measures
Hotels, restaurants, bars, and businesses are generally open but subject to strict hygiene and social distancing measures. Schools have reportedly reopened and previously imposed restrictions, such as restrictions on large gatherings and night time curfews, are not generally followed.
Measures may vary in some locations outside of Mogadishu. A nightly curfew remains in place in the city of Garowe in Puntland but it is unclear whether this edict is being followed.
Authorities may tighten or ease COVID-19-related measures on short notice. Disruptions to supply chains and shortages of essential goods are possible.
Context
The measures adopted by the government correspond with similar actions taken by other regional governments in response to the spread of COVID-19. 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, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Consider delaying traveling to Somalia until officials lift restrictions. 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.
