18 Jan 2021 | 10:39 AM UTC
Sao Tome and Principe: Authorities extend COVID-19-related state of calamity Jan. 16 /update 16
Authorities in Sao Tome and Principe extend COVID-19 state of calamity measures and restrictions Jan. 16. International travel ongoing.
Event
Authorities in Sao Tome and Principe have extended the coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related state of calamity on the island of Sao Tome for 15 days from Jan. 16. Under the measure, several health-related measures will remain in force.
Domestic Restrictions:
In the autonomous region of Principe, increased restrictions are in place through at least Jan. 28. All large gatherings and primary and secondary academic activities have been banned. Businesses, excluding takeaway services, will operate between 0500-1700. Religious activities have also been suspended. Medical appointments, except for medical emergencies, have been suspended. Travel between Sao Tome and Principe is conditional on travelers presenting a negative rapid COVID-19 test. Further measures could be introduced in the coming days.
Elsewhere in the country, 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.
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 may be refused entry.
Travelers may also undergo a test at a medical facility upon arrival in Sao Tome and Principe. Dates and timings of tests are dependent on the day of arrival and the air service provider. It is currently unclear if travelers will have to isolate for the duration of the process.
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.
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.
