WORLDWIDE
Novel Coronavirus Outbreak
Imported cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as well as limited
human-tohuman transmission, have been confirmed in several countries. This new
coronavirus can cause symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Travelers to affected locations are advised to pay attention to general hygiene
and avoid direct contact with people who are sick. Anyone with symptoms of
pneumonia, which include high fever and shortness of breath, should seek
medical attention.
Authorities in several countries have introduced travel restrictions and health
screening measures at various airports amid the global COVID-19 outbreak. While
measures initially applied primarily to travelers arriving either directly or
indirectly from China, some countries have now extended restrictions to
travelers from Iran, Iraq, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand.
Some airlines have temporarily suspended flight operations. Travelers should
anticipate related disruption at airports and reconfirm their itineraries, as
well as the overall feasibility of their journeys, given the increased
restrictions.
AMERICAS
Regional
The first cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Argentina, Chile, the
Dominican Republic, and Ecuador. This new coronavirus can cause symptoms of
fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Travelers in affected locations are
advised to pay attention to general hygiene and avoid direct contact with
people who are obviously sick. Anyone with symptoms of pneumonia, which include
high fever and shortness of breath, should seek medical attention.
Several countries have introduced travel restrictions to contain the spread of
the COVID-19 disease outbreak. Health screening measures are in place at
various ports of entry across the Americas. While initially applying primarily
to travelers arriving directly or indirectly from China, some countries have
extended restrictions to travelers from Iran, Italy, Singapore, and South
Korea. Several airlines have also suspended or reduced flights to and from
several countries. Travelers should maintain flexible itineraries accounting
for disruption at airports. Passengers traveling from China or other countries
affected by the outbreak should anticipate more stringent scrutiny and
ascertain overall feasibility of travel prior to departure.
United States
Authorities advise that “for most people, the immediate risk of being exposed
to the virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to be low. This virus is not
currently widespread in the United States.” Cases of the novel strain of
coronavirus, currently causing an outbreak of pneumonia in mainland China, have
been confirmed in people in the United States. Imported cases have been
detected in the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia,
Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York,
North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and
Wisconsin, and in people who were evacuated from China. Health authorities have
implemented protocols for isolation, quarantine, testing, and managing people
who may have been exposed to the virus. To prevent infection, travelers should pay
attention to hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching their face, and
avoid close contact with other people.
Travelers arriving to the US from or through China should expect heightened
screening measures for COVID-19 and related disruption. All flights from China
are being re-routed through 11 airports (JFK, ORD, SFO, SEA, HNL, LAX, ATL,
IAD, EWR, DFW & DTW), while additional entry restrictions for travelers
from China will also be implemented. Foreign nationals who have visited Iran in
the past 14 days have also been barred from re-entering the US.
The US Department of State has issued a Level 4 (Do Not Travel) warning for
mainland China. The State Department advises US citizens not to travel to China
due to the novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China. The World Health
Organization has determined the rapidly spreading outbreak constitutes a Public
Health Emergency of International Concern. Travelers should be prepared for
travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice. US
citizens currently in China should consider departing using commercial means.
The Department of State has requested that all non-essential US. government
personnel defer travel to China in light of the novel coronavirus. To help
contain the novel coronavirus, Chinese authorities have suspended air, road,
and rail travel in the area around Wuhan and placed restrictions on travel and
other activities throughout the country. On January 23, 2020, the Department of
State ordered the departure of all non-emergency US. personnel and their family
members from Wuhan. The US government has limited ability to provide emergency
services to US citizens in Hubei Province.
The Department of Homeland Security announced that travelers who are residents
of New York state will no longer be able to enroll in Global Entry and other
Trusted Traveler Programs due to aspects of the state’s “Green Light Law” which
protect undocumented immigrants. Existing members of Global Entry and other
Trusted Traveler Programs will still be able use these services. Only new
enrollments or re-enrollments will be curtailed for New York residents. Other
programs that will no longer accept applications from New York residents
include the Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI);
NEXUS, which allows for expedited border crossing between the US and Canada;
and the Free And Secure Trade (FAST) program, which allows faster clearance for
commercial shipments between the US border, Canada, and Mexico. The TSA
PreCheck program is not part of this new restriction.
Canada
Cases of the novel coronavirus, currently causing an outbreak in mainland China
have been confirmed. All individuals had a recent travel history to Wuhan.
Travelers to affected locations are advised to pay attention to general hygiene
and avoid direct contact with people who are obviously sick. Anyone with
symptoms of pneumonia, which include high fever and shortness of breath, who is
or has been in an affected location should seek medical attention.
Travelers should expect additional screening measures at airports following an
increase in reported 2019-Novel Coronavirus cases in China. The Canadian Border
Services Agency has announced that passengers arriving from international
flights at Montreal-Trudeau (YUL), Toronto Pearson (YYZ), and Vancouver (YVR)
international airports will be asked a screening question as part of the
regular arrival process. Passengers identified to be at an increased risk may
be required to undergo further screening. Travelers should anticipate related
disruption and follow all official directives.
Mexico
Yesterday, two federal officers were injured following a vehicle explosion in
the vicinity of the offices of the National Guard in Celaya. Reports noted that
the explosion occurred following an increase in incidents of drug-related
crimes in Guanajuato, including violent crime and extortion. The attack
reflects the significant and persistent risks posed by crime in Mexico.
Travelers in urban centers should continue to observe stringent precautions at
all times.
Paraguay
The first case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Paraguay. This new coronavirus
can cause symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Although
transmission from human-to-human has occurred in other countries, there is no
suggestion at this stage of any further spread in Paraguay. Travelers in
affected locations are advised to pay attention to general hygiene and avoid
direct contact with people who are sick. Anyone with symptoms of pneumonia,
which include high fever and shortness of breath, should seek medical
attention.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
Regional
Countries across the region continue to impose health screening measures at
airports along with some travel restrictions linked to COVID-19. These have
applied primarily to travelers arriving from China, though some countries and
airlines are also implementing measures for those traveling to and from France,
Germany, Iran, Italy, South Korea, and Spain. As of yesterday, Cameroon,
Nigeria, Togo, Senegal and South Africa have confirmed cases. Travelers should
anticipate related disruption at affected airports and reconfirm their
itineraries.
Travelers in Israel and the Palestinian Territories should reconfirm
itineraries amid entry restrictions and flight cancellations due to the
COVID-19 outbreak. Israel will deny entry to travelers arriving from several
European countries unless they are able to self-quarantine for 14 days,
extending previous restrictions for travelers from other affected areas. The Palestinian
Authority announced that all tourists are barred from entering the West Bank.
El Al Airlines has canceled flight connections to several destinations in
Europe and Asia, while Lufthansa, Swiss and Austrian Airways have canceled all
flights to Israel.
Burkina
Faso
Travelers in Burkina Faso should anticipate disruption during a planned general
strike from March 16 to 20. The strike has been called by several unions over
the government’s decision to introduce a new tax on civil servants’ allowances
and bonuses. Travelers in Ouagadougou should avoid a related demonstration on
March 17. While the event is expected to pass-off peacefully, travelers should
avoid all related gatherings as a precaution. A related protest on March 7 was
peaceful and well-attended.
Congo
(DRC)
Polio cases due to strains of “circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type
2” (cVDPV2) have been reported in many provinces. The cVDPV strain can
emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Polio is a contagious viral illness
that causes paralysis and death. The infection is spread through ingestion of
contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. Travelers
should prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccinations are up to date.
Ethiopia
Cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) have been
detected. cVDPV strains can emerge in undervaccinated populations. Polio is a
contagious viral illness that can potentially causes paralysis and death. The
infection is spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or
directly from an infected person. Travelers should prevent infection by
ensuring polio vaccinations are up to date, including a booster, and selecting
safe food and water.
Iran
An outbreak of COVID-19 is underway in Iran. In response, several countries
have closed their land borders with Iran and suspended flights. COVID-19 can
cause symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Travelers are advised
to pay attention to general hygiene and avoid direct contact with people who
are sick. Anyone with symptoms of respiratory illness who may have been exposed
to COVID-19 should seek medical attention according to the local procedure. US
authorities advise all non-essential travel to Iran be deferred.
Kenya
Today, travelers in Meru County should avoid travel to Makutano following
reports of ongoing unrest. Student protesters of the Meru National Polytechnic
have reportedly set fire to buildings in protest of the killing of a student.
The unrest was reportedly sparked along the Meru-Maua Highway.
Saudi
Arabia
Travelers should reconfirm their itineraries following new entry restrictions
related to the COVID-19 outbreak. Today, authorities temporarily suspended air
and sea traffic between the Kingdom and nine countries, including the United
Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, South Korea, and
Italy. All foreign nationals who have been to these countries in the past 14
days will be barred from entry into Saudi Arabia. Land crossings remain
restricted to commercial trucks only.
Sudan
Today, travelers should exercise caution in Khartoum and expect heightened
security after a reported assassination attempt on Prime Minister Abdalla
Hamdok. A vehicle exploded near his motorcade as it was making its way near the
Blue Nile Bridge from Khartoum to Khartoum North. The Prime Minister was
unharmed.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
Regional
Countries continue to introduce more travel restrictions and health screening
measures at transportation hubs, including airports, seaports and border crossings,
to contain the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak. While stringent restrictions
initially applied to passengers arriving from mainland China, many countries
have expanded these measures to other locations with confirmed COVID-19 cases,
including Iran, Italy, and South Korea. Travelers should maintain flexible
itineraries and be prepared for short-notice changes to entry restrictions.
Travelers arriving from countries with confirmed cases of COVID-19 or who have
been to or transited through mainland China within 14 days of arrival at their
destination or place of transit should reconfirm the feasibility of travel.
Travelers in Hong Kong should anticipate and avoid gatherings linked to the
ongoing protest movement, which has broadened to include criticisms over the
government’s handling of the COVID-19 outbreak. Related grievances have sparked
local protests around medical facilities and quarantine centers. Key dates also
remain triggers for unrest. Clashes occurred between protesters and police along
Nathan Road, near the Prince Edward Mass Transit Railway (MTR) station, on
February 29; police used tear gas to disperse the unruly crowds. Travelers
should continue to exercise heightened vigilance around key dates and
anticipate potentially disruptive short-notice gatherings around flashpoint
areas.
Afghanistan Today, travelers in Kabul should reconfirm the feasibility of
movement after rocket fire and explosions were heard in the vicinity of the
Presidential Palace while re-elected President Ashraf Ghani was being
inaugurated. Ghani’s political rival, Chief Executive Officer Abdullah
Abdullah, has contested Ghani’s electoral victory and is holding his own
swearing-in, reportedly also in Police District 2.
Bangladesh
The first cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Bangladesh. This new
coronavirus can cause symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Travelers in affected locations are advised to pay attention to general hygiene
and avoid direct contact with people who are obviously sick. Travelers with
symptoms of pneumonia, which include high fever and shortness of breath, should
seek medical.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned visit to the country on March 17
has been postponed amid concerns over COVID-19. Should the visit proceed at a
later date, further protests by Islamist political parties in Dhaka and other
urban centers are possible. These parties had previously called for the
formation of a “human chain” across the country on March 12. Any such
gatherings should be avoided due to the potential for local disturbances,
though these are likely to be quickly contained by security forces.
Participants may also cause disruption by blocking roads.
On Wednesday, March 11, travelers in Dhaka and other urban centers should
anticipate disruption and avoid planned nationwide demonstrations by the main
opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The party is demanding improved
medical treatment for, and the release of, its jailed leader, Khaleda Zia. A
related rally in Dhaka is likely to take place at the BNP Headquarters in the
Naya Paltan area, with party offices serving as probable venues for similar
events elsewhere. Although BNP demonstrations on March 1-2 passed off
peacefully, there remains potential for unrest during political gatherings,
posing incidental risks to bystanders.
French
Polynesia
Today through March 31, all passengers, including airline crew, traveling to or
transiting through French Polynesia must present a medical certificate or
doctor’s certificate, dated within 5 days of departure and certifying the
travelers’ state of health is free of any clinical sign of detectable
infection. Through today, travelers who have visited or transited through a
risk area in the 30 days preceding the trip must present a medical certificate
or a doctor’s certificate dated within 5 days of departure and certifying the
traveler’s state of health is free of any clinical sign of detectable infection
when boarding flights to French Polynesia. Current risk areas include China,
Japan, South Korea, Cambodia, Hong-Kong, India, Macau, Malaysia, Nepal,
Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Iran, and Italy
(Lombardy, Venetia, and Emilia Romagna).
India
Today and tomorrow, travelers should expect disruption during the Hindu
festival of Holi. The festival, popular among locals and tourists alike, will
be celebrated nationwide; however, larger festivities are expected in New Delhi
and northern and western states. Participants commonly throw colored water and
brightly colored powder at pedestrians as part of celebrations. Travelers
should anticipate a heightened security presence in affected areas and maintain
vigilance.
Japan
Non-essential travel to Hokkaido should be deferred due to the COVID-19
outbreak. Some authorities have advised their citizens to defer all travel to
Japan. Travelers should follow the advice of their local authorities. Symptoms
of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Health authorities
have implemented protocols for isolation, quarantine, testing, and managing
people who may have been exposed to the virus. To prevent infection, travelers
should pay attention to hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching their
face, and avoid close contact with other people.
South
Korea
Non-essential travel to Gyeongsan city, Daegu city, and Cheongdo county should
be deferred. Travelers should consider deferring all travel to South Korea. An
outbreak of COVID-19 is underway, and the South Korean government has raised
the alert level to Red, the highest on a four-tiered system. Health authorities
have implemented protocols for isolation, quarantine, testing, and managing
people who may have been exposed to the virus. This new coronavirus can cause
symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Travelers are advised to pay
attention to general hygiene and avoid direct contact with people who are sick.
Anyone with symptoms of respiratory illness who may have been exposed to
COVID-19 should seek medical attention according to the local procedure.
Sri
Lanka
Political tensions are likely to escalate in Sri Lanka ahead of Parliamentary
Elections scheduled for April 25 April. Nominations must be filed by March 19.
Ethnic and communal tensions, particularly between the Buddhist majority and
the minority Muslim community, may add to the risk of unrest if the leading
candidates employ nationalist rhetoric to bolster their support during the
campaign period. Travelers should monitor related developments closely and
maintain heightened situational awareness in the run-up to the elections.
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa announced the election on March 1, in a move that
was widely expected.
Thailand
The Tourism Authority of Thailand published a clarification regarding the
country’s measures to contain COVID-19, stating that authorities do not
recommend restrictions for travelers arriving from China and other countries
with confirmed COVID-19 cases. The announcement was likely intended to address
confusion over a deleted social media post by the country’s Health Minister on
March 3, which laid out quarantine measures for travelers from several
countries. Travelers should continue to monitor developments and reconfirm
their itineraries and the overall feasibility of travel prior to departure. The
potential for authorities to impose additional travel restrictions at short
notice cannot be discounted.
Vietnam
Authorities have made it mandatory for all travelers to declare their health
status, which can be completed online before arrival in Vietnam, as part of the
effort to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. The temporary entry ban for travelers
with travel history to mainland China remains in effect, except for those on
official or diplomatic missions. Visa-free travel has also been suspended for
South Korean and Italian Nationals. Travelers from mainland China who are
permitted to enter Vietnam, as well as those from South Korea, Iran and Italy,
are required to undergo 14-day quarantine upon entry. Travelers should abide by
official directives and reconfirm their itineraries and the overall feasibility
of travel prior to departure.
EUROPE Regional
Imported cases of COVID-19 (formerly 2019-novel coronavirus disease) have been
confirmed in multiple countries. This new coronavirus can cause symptoms of
fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Although transmission from human-tohuman
has occurred in other countries, there is no suggestion at this stage of any
further spread in these locations. Travelers in affected locations are advised
to pay attention to general hygiene and avoid direct contact with people who
are obviously sick. Anyone with symptoms of pneumonia, which include high fever
and shortness of breath, should seek medical attention.
Several countries in the region have implemented travel restrictions to limit
the potential importation of COVID-19. Screening measures should be expected in
most airports across the region. These have applied primarily to travelers
arriving from China, though some countries and airlines are also implementing
measures for those traveling to and from Iran, South Korea, and Italy.
Travelers should be prepared for flight cancellations and disruption at
airports during the outbreak.
Travelers in the UK and EU should continue to monitor developments and follow
all government guidelines related to the process of the UK leaving the EU,
known as “Brexit.” A withdrawal agreement was signed into law on January 23
after being ratified by the UK Parliament. Under the agreement, the UK left the
EU at 11:00 PM local time on January 31. There will now be a transition period,
during which most laws will remain unchanged. Local gatherings relating to
Brexit may take place in the UK, with most such events likely to be focused on
Parliament Square in London.
Albania
The first cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Albania. This new
coronavirus can cause symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Although transmission from human-to-human has occurred in other countries,
there is no suggestion at this stage of any further spread in Albania. Travelers
in affected locations are advised to pay attention to general hygiene and avoid
direct contact with people who are sick. Travelers with symptoms of pneumonia,
which include high fever and shortness of breath, should seek medical
attention.
Bulgaria
The first cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Bulgaria. This new
coronavirus can cause symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Although transmission from human-to-human has occurred in other countries,
there is no suggestion at this stage of any further spread in Bulgaria.
Travelers in affected locations are advised to pay attention to general hygiene
and avoid direct contact with people who are sick. Anyone with symptoms of
pneumonia, which include high fever and shortness of breath, should seek
medical attention.
France
COVID-19 has been reported from all 13 departments of France. Symptoms of
COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Health authorities have
implemented protocols for isolation, quarantine, testing, and managing people
who may have been exposed to the virus. Travelers should follow the directions
of local authorities. To prevent infection, travelers should pay attention to
hygiene and avoid large crowds.
Today, passengers transiting French airports should anticipate disruption and
reconfirm their flights during a nationwide air traffic controllers’ strike.
The industrial action will be held from 7:00 PM local time today through 6:30
AM local time on Monday, March 9. The work stoppage, which has been called by
the USAC-CGT union, is linked to ongoing protests over pension reforms.
Previous strikes on January 8-10 prompted the cancellation of hundreds of
flights.
Germany
The number of COVID-19 cases in Germany is growing, and cases have been
exported to other countries. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and
shortness of breath. Health authorities have implemented protocols for
isolation, quarantine, testing, and managing people who may have been exposed
to the virus. To prevent infection, travelers should pay attention to hygiene,
wash hands frequently, avoid touching their face, and avoid close contact with
other people.
Italy
All travel to Lombardy region, including Milan and 14 provinces across four
other regions where the government has imposed travel restrictions through
April 3, should be deferred amid the COVID-19 outbreak. Entry into or exit out
of these “red zones” is barred except for essential purposes or emergencies,
and those within these zones are being advised to limit internal movement as
much as possible. Non-essential travel to surrounding parts of northern Italy
should be deferred, and travelers should consider deferring travel to the rest
of the country, due to the risk of a mandatory period of quarantine and
possible refusal of entry to other destinations.
Moldova
The first case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Moldova. This new coronavirus
can cause symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Although
transmission from human-to-human has occurred in other countries, there is no
suggestion at this stage of any further spread in Moldova. Travelers in
affected locations are advised to pay attention to general hygiene and avoid
direct contact with people who are sick. Travelers with symptoms of pneumonia,
which include high fever and shortness of breath, should seek medical
attention.
