Cape Verde: Coronavirus-related state of calamity to remain in effect on Fogo Island through Jan. 15 /update 17

Cape Verde extends coronavirus-related state of calamity for Fogo Island through Jan. 15. Other islands under state of contingency.

Event

Authorities in Cape Verde have extended the country's state of calamity for Fogo island through at least Jan. 15 as part of measures to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Other islands, including Santiago, will remain under a state of contingency.

Despite the extension of the measures, commercial international air and maritime travel are continuing in Cape Verde. Travelers entering and exiting country must proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than 72 hours before travel. Travelers are screened at ports of entry; persons arriving in Cape Verde must also complete an online health surveillance form and an airport security tax form. Travelers who fail to meet the 72 hour threshold will be allowed to exit the port of entry or disembark until a negative result has been reported.

Domestic Measures
Despite the resumption of international travel, several domestic measures remain in place. The use of facemasks is mandatory in public places. Limited operational restrictions on commercial, leisure, and religious premises are in effect on all islands. Social distancing and hygiene measures remain in force. Most businesses are operational; however, limitations on operating hours are in place. Persons displaying COVID-19 symptoms are requested to self-quarantine for 14 days. Inter-island flights and maritime transport resumed in mid-July. Persons traveling to the islands of Sal and Boa Vista and from Santiago and Fogo must present a negative COVID-19 screening test carried out no more than 72 hours before departure. The online health surveillance form must also be completed.

Authorities are likely to continue to amend and update restrictions in response to COVID-19 activity in the coming weeks. These will continue to disrupt domestic and international travel and business operations.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements before departure. 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.