East Africa is now open for international travels. Yes, even amidst the increased positive cases of covid19, all governments have reopened entry for international travels to revive the tourism industry that was hardly hit by the deadly virus. In the early days of 2020, East Arica and whole whole world was struck by the pandemic which spread all through like a wild fire. All countries rushed to restrict travels by closing land borders and international airports in a bid to contain the spread of the virus across countries. Travelers who had initially postponed trips due to travel restrictions are called upon to rebook and travel again. In addition, those who intent to travel in the near future are advised to book now and secure the trips especially in mountain gorilla trekking where permits are on a high demand. However, before booking any safari to Africa, travelers are advised to first check the covid19 status of a specific country to get ready.
Covid19 status in Uganda
As of 23rd, the status of covid19 in Uganda indicate
Confirmed cases (only Ugandans) 6,712
Active cases 1,173
Cumulative Ugandan recoveries 2,788
Contacts listed 38,328
Samples tested 457,128
Contacts completed follow-up 28,437
Contacts under follow-up 9,891
Under quarantine 3,095
Covid19 status in Kenya
37,218 confirmed cases
24,147 recoveries
659 deaths
Covid19 status in Rwanda
4,722 confirmed cases
2,991 recoveries
27 deaths
Covid19 status in the Democratic Republic of Congo
10,537 confirmed cases
10,041 recoveries
271 Deaths
What are the common signs and symptoms of covid19?
Travelers are also reminded to keep checking for the common signs and symptoms of the deadly virus. These include
- Fever
- Dry cough
- Tiredness
- Aches and pains
- Sore throat
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Conjunctivitis
- Skin rash
- Discoloration of fingers
- Difficulty in breathing (Shortness of breath)
- Chest pain
- Loss of speech or movement
How to prevent the spread of Covid19
Whenever traveling or interacting with different people, please take note of the following ways to stop the spread of covid19. These include:
- Wash hands regularly with soap and running water
- Sanitize with alcohol based hand rub
- Wear a mask when in public
- Keep a distance (At least 4 meters)
- Do not touch the eyes, nose and mouth
- Couch in the elbow
- If fever, cough and high temperatures, seek medical attention
Guide for trekking gorillas amidst covid19
For those visiting to trek gorillas in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, take note of the following guidelines:
- Keep a distance of 10 meters away from the gorillas
- You must test negative for covid19
- Carry your gorilla permit
- Do not look direct into the eyes of the gorilla
- Don’t trek when sick
- Do not touch the gorillas
- Do not litter in the park
- Spend strictly an hour in the presence of the gorillas
- Stay within your group
Keep updated on the status of covid19 in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo to ensure safety on your African safari
