16 Dec 2020 | 01:14 PM UTC
Sao Tome and Principe: State of calamity extended through Jan. 15 /update 14
Authorities in Sao Tome and Principe extend COVID-19 state of calamity for 30 days through Jan. 15. International travel ongoing.
Event
Authorities in Sao Tome and Principe have extended the country's coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related state of calamity through Jan. 15. Under the measure, several health-related measures will remain in force.
Domestic Restrictions:
Protective facemasks are mandatory in closed private and public spaces, public transportation, and schools.
Social-distancing and hygiene measures are mandated in all public spaces.
Gatherings on public roads are limited to eight people.
Individuals who test positive for the disease, or are in contact with persons testing positive, must self-isolate.
All team sports are banned until further notice.
Funerals are limited to 25 attendees; funerals for victims of COVID-19 will be held under separate measures.
Religious ceremonies and academic activity can continue at 50-percent capacity.
Festivals and clubs remain closed; restaurants can operate at 50-percent capacity, with a maximum of five guests per table.
Markets can only operate 0500-1700 and must close on Sundays.
International Travel Restrictions:
Limited international flights are ongoing.
International arrivals must present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test result, obtained no more than 72 hours before arrival. Travelers must also present a test upon departure.
Travelers without proof or displaying symptoms will be subject to a test at the port of arrival and may face quarantine measures.
The extension follows an upgrade from a state of alert to a state of calamity, Nov. 2020. Further amendments or updates in response to disease activity are likely in the coming months. Disruptions to domestic and international travel are also likely to persist as authorities screen all arrivals and departures.
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, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all 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. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.
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.
