Since the start of last month, Mauritius has welcomed some 80,000 holidaymakers; the island’s tourism authority is now targeting 25% growth, with bookings through to the end of the year "looking extremely promising".

However, the aim comes amid a recent increase in Covid infection, which the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) said was "unfortunately part of the new normal in most countries where restrictions are removed".

To combat the spike, schools have been temporarily closed, while further health measures have been introduced, including limiting the size of large gatherings, according to the MTPA.

Around 85% of the adult population on Mauritius has now been fully vaccinated. A booster campaign is also under way, as is vaccination of 15- to 18-year-olds.

"The Mauritian health authorities are continuing to implement a wide-ranging Covid-19 response," said the MTPA, which added the island nation’s ability to welcome tourists from 1 October – critical to its economy – had only been possible owing to its vaccination programme.

"The health authorities remain confident in their ability to manage the recent increase in infection rates," said the MTPA.

"On the tourism front, sanitary protocols throughout our hospitality industry remain at the very highest standards, ensuring the local community and international guests are afforded maximum protection from the virus.

"Visitors can book holidays to Mauritius with a high degree of confidence that their trips will be enjoyable, safe and secure."

Tourism minister Steven Obeegadoo added: “In Mauritius, we continue to prioritise the health of our population, and our staggered reopening was part of this carefully planned policy.

"Since the reopening of our borders on 1 October, we have safely welcomed over 80,000 travellers to date, and look forward to welcoming many more to our home.

"To that effect, next week Mauritius will be hosting a familiarisation trip, with tour operators from France, the UK, Germany, Austria, Italy, Russia, Switzerland, India, Reunion, South Africa and Kenya."