USA: Borders are closed to travelers from 8 countries in South Africa

The United States today announced the closure of the border to travelers from eight South African countries, due to the appearance of the Omicron variant of Covid-19.

Arrivals from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi will be banned from arriving in the United States from Monday, a senior US official has said.

“This measure is taken for precautionary reasons, in the light of the new variant of Covid-19 that is being released in South Africa,” he told reporters.

“Our scientists and public health officials are working hard to learn more about this variant,” he added.

“President Biden has vowed to take all necessary measures to ensure the health of Americans and defeat the pandemic, and this measure was recommended by US government health experts and the Covid-19 team.” .

Only US citizens and US residents will be allowed to enter the country, the official said.

At the same time, Canada banned travelers from seven South African countries from entering its territory, where the new Omicron variant was found.

“We must act quickly to protect Canadians,” Health Minister Jean-Yves Duckle told a news conference. Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Source: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ