Seychelles has restricted travelers from Brazil, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan due to COVID-19 surges. Travelers from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh must provide vaccination proof, while those from Brazil are banned entirely. Seychellois citizens and residents can enter under quarantine. The vaccination campaign shows 51% of the population is fully vaccinated, aiming for herd immunity.
Seychelles has introduced new travel restrictions for individuals coming from Brazil, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan due to increasing COVID-19 cases in those countries. Effective immediately, travelers from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh must provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 when applying for travel authorization. The Ministry of Health emphasizes that vaccination certificates will undergo verification by the Public Health Authority before approval.
In contrast, travelers from Brazil are completely barred from entering Seychelles, which comprises 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean. Notably, these restrictions do not affect Seychellois citizens and permanent residents, who may travel but must adhere to quarantine protocols upon arrival as directed by the Public Health Authority.
The travel measures were implemented shortly after Seychelles reopened its borders to all visitors, except for travelers directly from South Africa, in an effort to revive its tourism sector, which has suffered due to the pandemic.
As of the latest updates, 50,524 individuals out of a total population of 98,462 in Seychelles have received full vaccination with either the Covishield or Sinopharm vaccines, representing 51 percent of the population. The national goal for herd immunity is set at 70,000 vaccinated individuals, with 66,433 people currently vaccinated, achieving 95 percent of the target. The vaccination initiative commenced on January 10, utilizing the two available vaccines, Covishield and Sinopharm.
In summary, Seychelles has implemented new travel regulations for visitors from specific countries experiencing severe COVID-19 outbreaks. These measures include a vaccination requirement for travelers from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, while travelers from Brazil face a complete travel ban. In contrast, Seychellois citizens and residents are permitted to enter under quarantine guidelines. The ongoing vaccination campaign continues to progress towards achieving herd immunity for the nation.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
