Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin

Location: Benin

Event:

As of April 20, the Government of Benin has confirmed 54 cases of COVID-19, including one death.

The Government of Benin has closed schools and houses of worship through May 10.  The government requires everyone within the health cordon zone in southern Benin to wear face masks in public and recommends their use in all other areas.

The sole upcoming commercial flight scheduled to depart Benin with prompt onward options to the United States is Ethiopian Airlines flight 916 on May 2.  Passengers whose flight were previously cancelled should contact their airline directly for information about rebooking options.  U.S. citizens in Benin should prepare to shelter in place until flights resume.

U.S. Embassy Cotonou has reduced operations to emergency services only until further notice.  U.S. citizens with emergencies, including passport emergencies, should contact American Citizen Services at ACSCotonou@state.gov or call +229 2136 7500 and press 0 to speak to an operator.

Actions to Take:

  • Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.
  • Visit the Government of Benin’s COVID-19 website (in French) or call the Government’s COVID-19 hotline at 51 02 00 00 / 51 04 00 00 for information on current government measures.
  • Follow all government and law enforcement procedures and instructions.
  • Visit theCOVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information regarding foreign countries’ quarantine requirements and other global impacts.
  • Make plans to depart Benin without U.S. Government assistance.
  • Prepare to shelter in place for an indefinite period of time if remaining in Benin, including ensuring you have an adequate supply of prescription medication.
  • Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in Benin.
  • Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States.
  • Check with your airlines regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or cancellations and restrictions of future tickets.

Assistance: