Due to the spread of a new strain of the coronavirus Omicron, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends that Ukrainian citizens refrain from traveling to South Africa, Botswana, Eswatin, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe. This is reported by the Government Portal.

Ukrainians who are in the territory of these countries should clearly observe anti-epidemic requirements, immediately contact local medical institutions in case of symptoms, be prepared for additional quarantine restrictions upon arrival in Ukraine, the ministry noted.

Officials also recommend that citizens of Ukraine follow the messages of air carriers in connection with possible changes of flights and the introduction of additional anti-epidemic measures.

It is also noted that the Ukrainian embassy in the Republic of South Africa has opened a 24-hour hotline to provide consular assistance: +27 681 987 112. E-mail: emb_za@mfa.gov.ua.

Ukrainian citizens may also request assistance at the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry hotline: +38 044 238 1657. E-mail: cons_or@mfa.gov.ua.