Why are repatriated Belizeans being forced to hotel quarantine when they can do so at home?

 

By Matt Smith: Months ago, when quarantine orders were put in place, Belize had a very low case count of Covid-19 and so it was important for anyone entering Belize to be placed in quarantine and monitored over a 14-day period. 

 

Fast forward to today, Belize is just shy of 1100 cases and there is no denying nationwide community spread. Covid-19 has affected people in every single district. Repatriated citizens via the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) have to wonder why they are being forced to be locked up for 7 or more days, in a hotel at a high cost when other citizens have the benefit of self-isolating at home. 

 

Entry through the land borders are understandably at a higher risk since the mode of transportation for re-entry may be unknown before arriving at the border.  

 

However, the PGIA is the most controlled entry point for anyone returning to Belize. These passengers have followed an application process and have been approved by Belize to return. United Airlines also has strict airline regulations to travel as well and has removed passengers from middle seats, plus most flights are averaging 50-60 passengers with ample space for social distancing. Upon entering Belize, there is an immediate opportunity for all passengers to be tested and sent home to self isolate. When we look at current processes and info, indeed this sounds unfair: 

 

➡️ Positive cases coming in from the PGIA have statistically been very low. 

➡️ Citizens in Belize who test positive for Covid-19 are allowed to self isolate at home at no cost. 

➡️ Citizens in Belize who are tested because they have been in contact with Covid-19 patients are sent home to self isolate at no cost. 

➡️ In 3 weeks the government is reopening the airport and tourist will be able to enjoy their holidays without a mandatory quarantine. 

 

So why a select group of returning citizens must be subject to the high cost of quarantine and everyone else is not?