Critical Alert
Suriname extends existing coronavirus disease-related business and movement restrictions, and 2100-0500 curfew through Oct. 25.
Alert Begins 12 Oct 2020 11:16 AM UTC
Alert Expires 26 Oct 2020 11:59 PM UTC
- Incident: COVID-19 restrictions
- Location(s): Nationwide
- Time Frame: Indefinite
- Impact: Significant transport and business disruptions, increased security; possible demonstrations
Summary
Authorities in Suriname have extended the existing nationwide restrictions on business and movements, which form part of the nation's coronavirus disease (COVID-19) response plan, until at least Oct. 25. Lockdown orders in the boroughs of Apoera, Kabalebo, Section, and Washabo will remain in place until 0500 Oct. 13. While the lockdown order is in effect, all persons must stay at home, and no person may enter or leave the area. The government will provide food to those affected by the lockdown order. Nationwide, the following internal measures will be extended:
- The curfew will continue to be imposed from 2100-0500. Essential workers, including medical workers and emergency services personnel, are exempt from the curfew.
- Gatherings are limited to 10 people; however, parties remain banned.
- Religious gatherings and funerals are permitted with no more than 50 people.
- Restaurants and other eateries may only open for outside dining and takeaway.
- Outdoor sports may continue normally, though contact sports are still prohibited.
- Gyms, sports, and recreational centers, contact and personal care services, and casinos may reopen subject COVID-19 operating protocols.
- Discotheques, nightclubs, dance halls, and brothels remain closed.
Generally, all individuals and employees must continue to adhere to regular hygiene protocols and physical distancing measures, including keeping 1.5 meters (5 feet) between individuals and wearing a nose and mouth covering. Businesses that are permitted to open must enforce strict operating protocols.
International Travel
Most international passenger movement at all ports of entry remains banned; however, travelers from the Netherlands and Dutch-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries are permitted entry. Upon arrival, travelers must provide a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result and will be required to quarantine for 10 days in a government-approved facility. Cargo, medical, repatriation, and domestic flights are continuing. The movement of essential goods by land remains ongoing; however, enhanced health screenings may result in delivery delays.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks. Authorities could impose highly targeted localized measures in some communities in response to increased activity.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel and transportation arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance.
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.
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