Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Bangui, Central African Republic

Location:  Country-wide

Event:  COVID-19 Health Update

The Ministry of Health of the Central African Republic (CAR) has confirmed there are cases of COVID-19 in the country.

On March 14, the Department of State authorized the departure from any diplomatic or consular post in the world of US personnel and family members who have been medically determined to be at higher risk of a poor outcome if exposed to COVID-19.

The government of CAR has implemented measures to limit the spread of COVID-19.  The government of CAR established a coronavirus hotline (French and Sango) – call 1212 if you have questions or to report possible exposure.

  • Anyone coming from a country with local-transmission of COVID-19 is banned from entering (exceptions: Central African citizens, diplomats, and NGOs)
  • Preschools, schools, and universities are closed
  • Bars, clubs, restaurants, cafes, and refreshment stalls are closed
  • Gatherings of more than 15 (including religious services) are banned; weddings and funerals are limited to close family members
  • The airport is closed (except for commercial, humanitarian, medevac, and technical stops)
  • Self-quarantine of 21 days (increased from 14 days) is mandatory for any person entering CAR from a location with local transmission of COVID-19.* (see “Actions to Take” below)
  • Quarantined individuals are banned from leaving their domicile
  • Movements are restricted outside of Bangui (exceptions for MINUSCA and humanitarians)
  • No handshakes or kissing as greetings, instead use only non-contact greetings for social interactions
  • Public spaces must have hand-washing stations

We are monitoring the potential for an Asky flight from Bangui to Lome in the near future. For details, please contact Asky directly. If you need assistance departing the country, please contact us at ConsularBangui@state.gov.

The Department of State has issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory for COVID-19.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Global COVID-19 Outbreak Notice.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the Central African Republic.  For emergency American Citizens Services, please visit our website for additional information.

On March 18, the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. personnel in Bangui.

Visit the local government COVID-19 website http://www.msp-centrafrique.net/ for updated information.

Actions to Take:

Assistance: