The outbreak of COVID-19 continues to evolve and travellers may have questions regarding their travel plans and the best way to prepare and protect themselves from exposure to the new virus. We would like our client to be reassured we are keeping abreast of the situation and advising your travellers when requesting travel to any region affected.
Current UK & ROI Advice
Cases of novel coronavirus were first reported in Hubei Province, China, in December 2019. Since then, further cases of the virus have been confirmed in a number of countries in Asia and further afield. For the latest advice see information and advice for the public on the outbreak of coronavirus from the Department of Health and Social Care in the UK and the Department of Health in the Republic of Ireland, which covers the current situation in the UK and abroad and provides specific advice for travellers returning to the UK.
Current Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) travel advice
The FCO is currently advising against all travel to Hubei Province, and against all but essential travel to the rest of mainland China. If you’re in China and able to leave, you should do so. See the latest travel advice for China.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) is also advising against all but essential travel to:
· the cities of Daegu and Cheongdo in South Korea
· ten small towns in the Lombardy region and one in the Veneto region of Italy
The FCO is not advising against travel to any other country/territory as a result of coronavirus risks.
Impact for travellers
If you’re concerned about the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on your existing travel plans, please speak to your Beyond Business Travel account manager.
Advice for travellers
All travellers should follow sensible guidance to prepare for their trip and reduce risk of exposure to COVID-19 while this outbreak is on-going:
· Be aware of, and keep up to date with the latest official advice offered by the country you are departing from or travelling to during this COVID-19 outbreak.
· If you are travelling from the UK, check the up to date guidance from gov.uk website and for information on any travel restrictions, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) foreign travel advice;
· Contact your Beyond Business Travel account manager, airline, other transport and accommodation providers for up-to date information on your itinerary and travel plans
· Be aware that there may be enhanced screening/monitoring at entry and exit ports.
· Wash your hands often with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. This is particularly important after taking public transport.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands & avoid close contact with people who are sick.
· Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a bin and wash hands with soap and water.
· If you are fit and well, with no symptoms, there is no evidence that wearing face masks as a general prevention measure is helpful. Public Health England advises against using masks outside clinical settings. If you decide to use a mask, remember to you should still follow all the recommended precautions above to minimise risk of transmission.
Links
· World Health Organization: Q&A on coronaviruses
· World Health Organization: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public