On 20 July 2020, the Dominican Ministry of Health announced the declaration of a nationwide state of emergency until at least 3 September due to a recent surge in confirmed COVID-19 cases. A nightly ban on economic, recreational and social activities from 2000 to 0500 local time (0000 to 0900 UTC) remains in effect with exemptions for essential businesses, including health care and pharmaceutical services, hospitality services, private security, ports and airports. Public transportation will operate at a reduced capacity in accordance with social distancing measures. All public and private events have been either suspended or postponed. Individuals must wear face masks outdoors and comply with social distancing regulations. Additional restrictions — including a nationwide nightly curfew — may be announced with little advance notice under the emergency declaration.