Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Bamako, Mali – March 26, 2020
Event: Ongoing COVID-19 Response
On March 25, the Government of Mali announced there are two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Mali – one case is in Bamako and one in Kayes. Both persons arrived in Mali from France (March 12 and 16), and both cases are being managed by Malian health authorities.
Starting March 26, the Government of Mali will begin imposing a daily curfew from 9:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m.
The Government of Mali has implemented enhanced screening and quarantine measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The government has prohibited flights coming from countries with confirmed cases of COVID-19 effective March 20 at midnight. This led to cancellations of flights into and out of Mali. Travelers should be prepared for additional travel restrictions to go into effect with little or no advance notice.
The Embassy is aware of the hardship the airport restrictions are creating for U.S. citizens who need to get to the United States. Embassy staff members are exploring all options to address the current travel disruptions. You are strongly encouraged to continue working with your airline and/or travel arranger. All information about flights to the United States will be announced through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). If you are not already enrolled in STEP, please register at step.state.gov. If you are interested in returning to the U.S., please send an email to ACSBamako@state.gov if you have not already done so. The Embassy is compiling a list of interested travelers.
Due to the possibility of an extended disruption, please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19.
The Government of Mali has implemented measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. Schools and universities are closed until April 9, 2020. Sporting events, festivals, gatherings larger than 50 people have been banned, and bars and night clubs have also been closed.
Visit the Malian Ministry of Health for updated information on travel restrictions and closures.
On March 26, the Malian government announced that land borders are closed to passenger vehicle traffic while cargo and freight will proceed.
Effective March 18, U.S Embassy Bamako has suspended routine nonimmigrant visa appointments. Visit the Visas section of the embassy website for updates. Routine and emergency American citizen services continue to be offered. Visit the U.S. Citizens Services section of the website to schedule an appointment.
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.
On March 14, the Department of State authorized the departurefrom 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 Embassy has encouraged any Embassy staff with serious underlying health concerns to consider departing post. U.S. personnel were also advised to ensure they have sufficient supplies of prescription drugs on hand in case of future shortages.
U.S. government personnel are prohibited from leaving the City of Bamako.
Actions to Take:
- Consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the most up-to-date information.
- Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.
- Check with your airlines or travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.
- Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19.
- Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s websiteon the latest travel restrictions to the United States.
- Review the Malian Ministry of Health’s website.
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Bamako
ACI 2000
Rue 243, Porte 297
Bamako, Mali
+223 20 70 23 00
+223 66 75 28 60 (after-hours emergencies)
- State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
