El Salvador: Government indefinitely prohibits entry for travelers from UK and South Africa effective Dec. 20 due to new COVID-19 strain /update 15

El Salvador imposes indefinite entry prohibition on travelers from UK and South Africa as of Dec. 20 due to new coronavirus strain.

Event

On Dec. 20, President Nayib Bukele issued an executive order barring any traveler having the UK or South Africa on his or her flight itinerary from entering El Salvador effective immediately. The directive also prohibits entry for anyone who has been in either of the two countries in question within the previous 30 days. Bukele's edict is in response to a new strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) discovered primarily in the southeast of England and follows similar bans on international travel with the UK imposed by several European nations. It is unclear how long the Salvadorian president's order will remain in effect. The government could implement entry bans on travelers from other countries in the coming days; some cases of the new virus mutation have also been detected in Australia, Denmark, and the Netherlands.

Otherwise, El Salvador's existing COVID-related international travel restrictions remain in force. Arriving travelers are required to present proof of a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. Additional health protocols and screenings are also in place at all airports, including mandatory requirements to wear facemasks and maintain 2 meters (6.5 feet) physical distancing.

Domestically, most commercial activities have resumed, though some tourism facilities may still be closed. All businesses must enhance sanitation procedures, ensure social distancing measures, and promote the use of facemasks by employees. All residents must limit face-to-face interactions, avoid crowds, and wear facemasks in public. Additional security will likely continue to be deployed to strictly enforce adherence to operating protocols, especially in the public transport sector.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further tighten, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks, particularly in response to developments regarding the newly-discovered COVID-19 strain.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers.

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.