Haitian President, Jovenel Moïse has imposed stricter health protocols in the country’s battle with a raging coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Among the measures imposed include a nightly curfew and mask mandate. These measures have been put in place as the French-speaking Caribbean territory is currently going through an eight-day “health emergency” over an outbreak ravaging parts of the island. 

The Associated Press reported yesterday that the Haitian government will ban all outdoor activity from 10:00 pm to 5:00 am today. This is in addition to social distancing protocols of at least 5 feet, which will be strictly observed.

President Moïse has also ordered public institutions to reduce staff by half. Temperature checks and hand-washing stations are required in banks, schools, hospitals and markets as well. 

Vaccination programme to start in June

Haiti is yet to receive a single dose of COVID-19 vaccines to begin the needed inoculation drives for the general population. However, AP is reporting that the country will begin its vaccine programme next month. 

Haiti confirmed 131 new cases in the past 24 hours, bringing its cumulative total to 14,037, according to data from the Ministry of Public Health and the Population. While 12,509 persons have made a full recovery, 292 patients have died due to coronavirus-related complication, the ministry added. 

The United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists the country at a level three on its travel health list.