14 Dec 2020 | 07:07 AM UTC
French Polynesia: Authorities extend territory-wide COVID-19 restrictions, including curfews in Tahiti and Moorea, through at least Jan. 15, 2021 /update 5
French Polynesia extends territory-wide controls, including curfews in Tahiti and Moorea, through at least Jan. 15, 2021 due to COVID-19.
Event
Officials in French Polynesia have extended coronavirus disease (COVID-19) controls through at least Jan. 15, 2021. A 2100-0400 overnight curfew remains in effect in Tahiti and Moorea, though officials will slightly ease the start time to 2200 for Dec. 24 and 31. Permits are required for essential trips, including hospital visits and work commutes, during curfew hours.
Gatherings remain limited to six people in most places, including beaches, public parks, and restaurants, throughout French Polynesia. Most social events, including weddings, are banned in public areas. Funerals can take place with up to 10 people at a time. People must wear facemasks in public spaces, including in restaurants and shops, on public transport, and at airports and ferry terminals; violators may face fines.
Exemptions from gathering restrictions remain in place for schools and business employees. Restaurants and bars must ensure all guests are seated and that tables are at least one meter (three feet) apart. The government requires some public events, such as trade fairs, to seek approval from authorities and ensure that capacity is limited to one person per four square meters (43 square feet). Sports competitions, flea markets, and garage sales in Tahiti, Moorea, and the Leeward Islands remain suspended.
Travel Restrictions
The government permits international arrivals without quarantine. Passengers must prove that they have tested negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours before boarding. Travelers must also present an Electronic Travel Information System health registration receipt and test for COVID-19 four days after arrival using government-provided testing kits. People testing positive must report to a health center.
Advice
Follow all official orders. Obtain permission before traveling during curfew hours. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.
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.
