The government of Mauritius has implemented Covid-19 public health protocols and placed the country in temporary confinement until March 25th.

The hope is to keep the Indian Ocean country as safe and secure as possible.

This follows the reporting of 15 cases of Covid-19 cases in the community.

International and domestic inbound and outbound passenger flights have been suspended until March 25th, but cargo flights will continue.

All 1.4 million citizens and residents as well as visitors to the country have been asked to stay at home or in their booked accommodation for the next two weeks and follow public health guidelines to allow for testing and other public health protocols to be completed.

Public health officials have already implemented track and trace protocols and have successfully located and isolated those that may have been in close contact with individuals who have tested positive for Covid-19.

Nilen Vencadasmy, chairman of Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, said: “Mauritius’ number one priority is to keep our country safe and secure for all. Although just 15 cases of Covid-19 have been detected across the whole island, we have decided to implement the nationwide lockdown to make sure that there is no risk of it spreading further.

“These public health measures, while precautionary, are applicable to everyone and all visitors to Mauritius must follow the rules.

“Mauritius is looking forward to welcoming visitors back later in 2021 in the knowledge that we are a safe and secure destination.”

Mauritius started its Covid-19 vaccination programme in January and last week began to offer the jab to non-residents.