Coronavirus

Guatemala bans Brazilian visitors due to Covid-19

Guatemala border.
Guatemalan border. Photo: Sergey-73/Shutterstock

The government in Guatemala moved to ban the entry of all travelers from Brazil, the United Kingdom, and South Africa — each of which has reported the discovery of new and more transmissible coronavirus variants. 

Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei addressed the nation on Saturday, saying the restrictions will remain in place until April 30. Besides affecting tourism, the decision dashed the hopes of Brazil’s national archery team, which was scheduled to travel to Guatemala for the Archery World Cup. 

Since March, Brazilians have been hit with several travel restrictions worldwide. Only South African citizens face more obstacles to international travel.  

In the same announcement, Mr. Giammattei confirmed the arrival of equipment for five field hospitals donated by Spain. Health Minister Amelia Flores said the “high-tech structures” could house 250 ICU beds. Guatemala has surpassed 213,000 coronavirus cases and 7,200 deaths. Borders have become a regional concern in Central America.

As of April 19, health authorities from Panama declared new health requirements for passengers who came from or stayed in South America within the last 15 days. The list includes a USD 85 coronavirus test and a three-day mandatory quarantine.