1.

0 Introduction

In January 2020, a global health pandemic dubbed Corona Virus emerged in China and
quickly spread to other countries. The epidemic began as a global disaster and had the
potential to harm a wide variety of human activities, including the tourism industry in small
island developing states, which is already severely impacted as per Dinarto, Wanto and
Sebastian (2020). The Tourism sector, deemed one of the fastest growing sectors, has evolved
into one of the significant economic activity for numerous small islands like as Jamaica,
Seychelles, and Mauritius, offering opportunities for employment, revenue creation, and
foreign direct investment and revenues. Mauritius is heavily reliant on its tourist industry,
which accounts for 24% of the Mauritian economy according to the Baldwin (2020). The
outbreak of the Covid 19 offers a significant public health risk on Mauritius's small island,
and a pandemic of this magnitude has not occurred in many years as defined by Stübinger
and Schneider (2020). Due to the quick growth in infections and deaths on a small island,
which has impacted the country's social and economic aspects, Mauritius announced a state
of emergency in March 2020, imposing a statewide lockdown on 19 March 2020 to ensure
public safety and prevent the spread of the virus. The 2019-nCoV outbreak has already had a
substantial impact on the tourism industry, with huge trip cancellations, hotel closures, flight
suspensions, and event postponements as stated by Fraccascia and Alvarado (2020).

However, in the ever-difficult times of Covid 19, countries like Mauritius have been regarded
as the most susceptible because they rely heavily on international tourism for sustainable
economic development and growth. The unexpected outbreak of the pandemic is anticipated
to have a long-lasting negative effect on the tourism and travel sectors in the short to medium
term as per the United Nations World Tourism Organization, (2020). Hamilton (2020) says
that economic shocks to the tourism and travel sectors might result in a drop of income
generated of between thirty percent and eighty percent and could last for the next two years,
until the economies of small developing countries recover. Such a severe shock has resulted
in a significant loss of jobs, a steep fall in foreign exchange and tax revenues, reducing the
capacity of the government to spend and the ability to implement the essential measures to
assist livelihoods throughout the crisis. However, as a country that is largely reliant on
tourism, Mauritius' government is under increasing pressure to reopen its airport and
rehabilitate an industry that employs nearly a fifth of its workforce. The government has not
given up hope or good will in its efforts to reclaim some of its tourism business. The question
that emerges is what the small island of Mauritius can do to rehabilitate its tourism industry,
which accounts for 24% of its GDP.

1.1 The Mauritian Tourism Sector

Mauritius is a small island in the Indian Ocean, located 1100 miles south of the African
continent's south-east coast. It has a population of 1.3 million. Mauritius has been hailed as
an exquisite place by many travellers. Classified as the tenth most densely inhabited country,
the island's beautiful lagoons, sandy beaches, and islanders' hospitality are some of the
island's most alluring aspects, and the majority of its tourists are from European countries,
specifically Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. The tourism industry employs 19.1
percent of the total workforce in 2019. Mauritius is ideally positioned to become the Indian
Ocean region's premier cruise tourism destination, owing to its strategic location, modern
seaports, attractiveness, and adaptable air connectivity as per the Ministry of Tourism (2018).
The island has emerged from a low-income agricultural economy, and tourism is one of the
fastest expanding sectors according to Stiglitz (2011).

1.2 Covid 19 and the global tourism sector

Tourism is one of the fastest growing and largest sectors, accounting for 10% of global GDP
and contributing to economic growth and the creation of informal and formal businesses
(Ministry of Tourism, 2018). Tourism in small developing countries like Mauritius, in
particular, has a large multiplier impact, producing economic activity and revenue in tourism-
related hospitality, recreational, and transportation sectors according to Cannonier and Burke
(2018). Globally, the novel Covid 19 pandemic may result in a loss of about 800 million to
1.1 billion international tourists as per Gössling, Scott, and Hall (2020). Approximately $1.2
trillion in revenue from tourism exports is at stake, as are an estimated 120 million jobs in the
travel and tourism industry as described by Ekstein, (2020). According to experience, a loss
of $1 million in international tourist revenue can result in a loss of $2-3 million in national
income, owing primarily to inter-sectoral ties to hospitality and recreational activities in the
economy, as well as corresponding losses that result in large indirect losses when the tourism
sector contracts.
1.3 Generic measures taken by the Government to combat Covid 19

The direct and indirect effects of Covid 19 on Mauritius' tourism industry are quite visible as
we see that the standard of living is degrading and the rate of unemployment is increasing.
Being an important sector, it was necessary to combat the virus and reopen the Mauritian
Tourism Sector. As per the Mauritius Chamber Commerce and Industry (2021), Mauritius
has reopened its borders on October 1, 2021, according to a report published by the Ministry
of Health and Quality of Life and the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority. It was mainly
due to the fact that 82% of the Mauritian Population was fully vaccinated. Further in the
report, Dr Kailesh Jagutpal, Mauritius's Health Minister, indicated that the vaccination rollout
has been systematic and that the country has already exceeded its target of fully vaccinated
people well ahead of the total reopening of borders to vaccinated travellers on October 1,
2021.

Many measures were stated by the World Health organisation in order to prevent the
propagation of the Covid 19 virus. The measures were applied by the local authorities based
on which the Quarantine Act (2020) was created and implemented by the Mauritian
Government. The generic measures being applied worldwide have been made mandatory for
local people and tourists travelling to Mauritius. The measures may be as follows:

1.3.1 Wearing of masks

As per the Quarantine Act (2020), Part (II) Section 4, ‘Every person shall wear a protective
mask over his nose and mouth in any place other than his usual place of residence and
ensuring that every kid in his or her care is at least five years old company, covers the child's
face with a protective mask above his or her nose and mouth.’

Smith (2021) states that a mask of appropriate quality can help mitigate risk and provide
protection during a pandemic of a respiratory agent, such as flu or Covid 19 which has been
stated by Rodney E. Rohde, a clinical laboratory science professor and infectious disease
specialist at Texas State University. As per the Professor, ‘a mask can protect patients,
particularly those who live in high-risk situations, not only from respiratory diseases but also
from seasonal allergies. It's especially beneficial if the individual is immunocompromised
and he further believes that the global health community must improve its communication on
the benefits of masks in order to foster confidence.
1.3.2 Social and physical distancing

The Quarantine Act (2020), Part (II) Section 5, states that ‘each individual shall fully adhere
to the social and physical distance norms stipulated in this regulation in all locations other
than his usual place of residence. Furthermore, it has been stated that at all times on any
place, including commercial establishments, offices, and structures, maintain a distance of at
least at least one metre apart from any other person, unless in the case of an emergency the
company of a youngster under the age of 12 is prohibited.’

The principal method utilized to prevent the spread of the virus that causes Covid-19 is social
distancing. As the name implies, it encourages people to leave more space between them and
to avoid gatherings and groups. As per Cross (2020), social distancing is critical for
preventing the transmission of dangerous diseases like Covid 19. Coughing, sneezing, and
close contact can all spread Covid 19. By limiting our close contact with others, we lower our
risks of contracting the virus and spreading it to our loved ones and our community. Social
separation is critical for everyone, but those of us with a higher risk of significant problems
from Covid-19 should be extremely cautious such as elderly people and people suffering
from serious illnesses such as cancer.

1.3.3 Good hygiene practices

The Quarantine Act (2020), Part (II) Section 6 describes that ‘every person shall ensure that
he disinfects his hands routinely using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser, where such is
available, whether in his usual place of residence, a public place, his workplace, or any other
premises.’

Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to keep Covid 19 at bay. As per Oller
(2021) soap and friction help loosen debris, grease, and bacteria from skin, including Covid
19 disease-causing germs, so they may be rinsed off hands. However, it must be done
correctly with soap and water. When soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand
sanitizer is the next best option. At least 60% alcohol should be present in your sanitizer.
Otherwise, it will not efficiently eliminate microorganisms. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers (at
least 60% alcohol) are effective at preventing the spread of germs and viruses. However,
handwashing with soap and water is still the preferred method of cleaning. When soap and
water are unavailable, hand sanitizer is an effective alternative. This covers situations where
public transportation is inconveniently located near a bathroom (airplane, train, bus).
Carrying a travel-size bottle of hand sanitizer enables you to disinfect your hands in a variety
of scenarios where you will be in close proximity to other individuals.

1.3.4 Hygiene products, cleaning and waste disposal

According to section 7 of the Act, ‘every employer is required to offer hygiene items and
trash disposal bins for his employees at their place of employment. Additionally, it shall be
assured that waste is disposed of on a regular basis and that the workplace, including utilized
surfaces such as benchtops, desks, and doorknobs, is cleaned and disinfected on a regular
basis. This area contains products for personal hygiene such as soap, hand sanitisers, and
tissue paper.’

Covid-19 virus can infect surfaces. Individuals may become infected if they come into
contact with certain surfaces and then touch their nose, mouth, or eyes. In the majority of
cases, the risk of infection by contacting a surface is negligible. The most effective method of
preventing infection from surfaces is to wash hands often with soap and water or with an
alcohol-based hand sanitizer. According to Benckiser (2022), additionally, sanitizing and
cleaning surfaces can help lower the risk of illness.

1.3.5 Sanitary requirements for incoming passengers

The section 17 of the act stipulates that no individual shall go to Mauritius unless he is fully
vaccinated and presents documentary evidence of such vaccination at the time of departure.
He shall show a certificate from an RT-PCR test verifying a negative result, provided that the
Covid 19 test was conducted within 72 hours of the departure date. Additionally, he must
provide documentary verification that he has health insurance that covers Covid 19. If the
individual is not fully vaccinated, he must produce documentary evidence that he has booked
and paid for a 15-day in-room stay package at a designated hotel, which includes airport hotel
transfers and three RT-PCR tests, for which he must present an RT-PCR test certificate
certifying a negative result, provided that the Covid-19 test was conducted within 72 hours of
the departure date.

1.4 Measures taken by the Mauritian Government to reopen its borders to foreign
travellers and to ensure that Mauritius is a safe holiday destination for tourists.

In a Press Release, the Director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, Mr. Arvind
Bundhun, Travel protocols for immunized travellers are being lowered further as a result of
the successful vaccination rollout. This is a significant step toward the country's complete
reopening of its borders on 1 October, when vaccinated overseas travellers will be welcomed
without limitations. Visitors who present a negative PCR test conducted during the preceding
72 hours’ embarkation will have unrestricted access to the island from the minute they arrive.

The Tourism Authority has implemented sanitary measures for the resumption of activities in
the Tourism sector. As per the Tourism Authority Sanitary Measures report (2021), these
actions were developed in accordance with World Health Organization and Ministry of
Health and Wellness criteria. These guidelines are subject to change at any time in response
to the pandemic's evolution, and non-compliance with these measures may result in license
suspension of organisations mainly involved in the tourism sector such as hotels or
restaurants. The guidelines have been developed into different parts according to the different
tourism activities and their nature.

1.4.1 Business

It should be ensured that all tourism-related organizations adhere to all applicable

Government regulations and obligatory actions. For instance, all management and workers
should receive at least two doses of authorized immunizations 14 days prior to operations. It
is also important to notify all employees in case of a suspected positive case of the Covid 19.
A strict protocol shall be followed in the event of suspected Covid-19 instances, and all
workers shall be notified. If possible, it is deemed appropriate to use natural air circulation
over air conditioning and prevent its use entirely. Implementing staggered break/lunch
intervals will assist in reducing mess room overcrowding. Video conferencing should be used
in lieu of in-person meetings wherever practicable. Before using credit or debit card
machines, customers can use a hand sanitizer dispenser located at the cashier's desk. It is
critical to meticulously document crucial acts and initiatives. Customers are being
encouraged to use card less payment methods such as ‘touch and pay’ or Juice being
introduced by the Mauritius Commercial Bank. Staff members shall even follow lunch times
which are staggered. This is being applied even in schools in order to decrease contact
between individuals and in turn reducing the risk of propagation of the Covid 19 virus.
Moreover, individuals are being encouraged to use their personal things instead of taking
form the office of using that of their colleagues. for instance, at water dispensers, staff
members are being asked to use their own water bottles instead of the offering cups.

1.4.2 Staff and clients

The Tour Operators or Travel Agents are the businesses that allocate clients to the tourism
industry. they are firms which organise and arrange the stay of overseas clients in Mauritius.
They arrange for hotels for their stay and even act as tourist guides to show them interesting
places. Thus, it is more of their responsibility to convey the mandatory sanitary measures to
passengers at the time of reservation and on their booking vouchers. It is important that the
staff members of the tourism sector should always wear masks that cover their nose and
mouth, and they should avoid direct contact whenever possible. They shall also keep the hand
sanitizer dispensers stocked and disinfecting credit card machines after each usage are
important safety precautions.

The clients are being asked to follow the local protocol that is washing their hands or wearing
a mask above their mouse and nose. We may view on the popular site MariDeal.Mu where
many clients do booking for their hotel stay that the local protocols are being published and
tourist are being asked to abide by them. We may take example of Tamassa Resort where the
conditions are published.

The following Covid-19 protocols are applicable to Mauritian citizens or holders of a local
residents' permit (and are subject to change at the discretion of the Tourism Authority):

All visitors are required to have had two doses of the Covid-19 vaccine before to their
scheduled check-in date.
As of the 19th of February in the year 2022, guests will be required to have two doses
of the virus and one booster treatment in order to enter the hotel grounds.
Vaccination card and identification card are required and must be shown at the
reception desk upon arrival.
Children under the age of 12 are currently exempt from vaccination at this time and
are permitted to remain in the same resort as long as they are accompanied by their
parents or a relative (adult) who has received the necessary vaccinations.
When visitors do not receive the two dosages or when the PCR test results are
positive, the concerned resort will not accept the current reservation.

1.4.3 Hotels

The licensee is responsible for maintaining the disinfectant content in drinking water and in
pools or spas within the limits established by international standards. Covered area air
conditioning, ventilation, and dehumidification equipment should be inspected on a regular
basis. Central air conditioning shall be avoided at all costs, and natural ventilation shall be
prioritized. As a general preventive step, public and communal places should be cleaned and
disinfected. Particular care should be paid to commonly touched objects, such as handles,
elevator buttons, and handrails. Hand sanitizer should be made available at elevator or lift
entrances. When cleaning rooms, housekeeping staff must wear protective equipment.

1.4.4 Restaurants

The buffet service being served by restaurants, both for those attached with hotels or those
operating individually shall be staffed by the hotels or restaurants’ personnel who are
appropriately attired. Coffee machines, soda machines, and any other dispensers should be
disinfected and operated by an employee on a regular basis. Tablecloths and napkins should
be machine washed as often as possible.

1.4.5 Pleasure craft licences including public crafts

It is the responsibility of all employees to ensure that they are wearing the necessary Personal
Protective Equipment and that they keep physical distance from others. Prior to beginning
operations, the craft and its attachments such as ladders, lifejackets, and other safety
equipment, among other things, should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Food and
beverages are kept in airtight containers and are only served by the crew members on the
ship.

1.5 Conclusion

The measures being issued to the staff members and the businesses are mainly to protect
them from the virus and thus they shall protect the clients as well. The virus contaminates
another person through manual contact or if someone coughs allowing direct contact with
another individual. Therefore, the Tourism Authority has implemented these measures in
order to limit the propagation while allowing the tourism sector of Mauritius to restart itself
and trigger the economy. The Quarantine Act (2020) initiated by the Mauritian Government
shall also trigger the citizens or tourists to maintain the sanitary measures being implemented
by the World Health Organisation. The Mauritian government decided to prioritize tourism
and hotel staff in the vaccination rollout in order to ensure that visitors are welcomed into a
safe and secure atmosphere in Mauritius. If the measures taken by the Government allows the
safe arrival and departure of the tourist it shall kick start the economy. All the measures taken
by the local authorities shall induce the safety of passengers while encouraging them to travel
and stay in Mauritius.
Reference

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