What is the COVID-19 situation in the Seychelles?

The first cases of COVID-19 in the Seychelles appeared on March 14, 2020. Two locals brought to the virus from Italy. This forced the state to go into coronavirus prevention mode. Distancing, hand disinfection and wearing masks were introduced.

The eleventh person sickened on April 5, 2020, employee of the Seychelles international airport. A strict quarantine was imposed for 21 days. A movement within the country was restricted. Domestic flights from Mahe to Praslin were cancelled. Public transport routes were shortened, public events were cancelled, construction work was stopped, and so on.

For a country with a population of only about 95,000 people, this was enough to take the severe measures in the following months – cancellation of flights and closure of the airport.

From the first cases of COVID-19, Seychelles had very few cases compared to the rest of the world. Such measures were introduced because of the danger of the virus. There might not have been enough resources: several hospitals, several mechanical ventilation machine, medicine is imported. Quarantine centers began to appear later.

By the end of May 2020, the situation had stabilized, but all cargo and private planes, yachts and ships had to obtain an entry permit from the health authorities. A quarantine on 14 days was for incoming.

As of August 1, 2020, Seychelles International Airport was opened for commercial flights, but with some new rules. A list of countries that were allowed to enter the Seychelles appeared. The list is constantly changing and depends on the number of sick people in a particular country. And of course, a whole series of requirements and restrictions for entry in addition to a negative test for COVID-19.

At the same time, a list of companies and accommodations appeared. They were allowed to receive and serve tourists. For this purpose, it was necessary to take all preventive measures against coronavirus infection and to be certified by the Public Health Authority.

June 28, 2020 was the highest number of detected cases of coronavirus infection of 50 people. Up until November 2020, the increase was small, from 1 to 12 people. But due to the resumption of flights with several countries and a great desire to bring tourists back to the country, the infection began to spread more rapidly.

As of December 31, 2020, there were already 275 cases of coronavirus infection, of which 214 have recovered and 61 are in the active phase.

Seychelles President Wavel Ramkalawan announced a new lockdown as early as December 29, 2020 in his address to the nation. It will last for 14 days. Churches, schools, bars, casinos, spas, gyms and other public places will be closed. Employees will be moved to remote work if possible. The airport will operate according to the list of approved countries and previously adopted restrictions.