Travel Advice for Coronavirus COVID-19 (Update 13)
27 Feb 2020
The World Health Organisation (WHO)
reports the outbreak of COVID-19 continues in China and other countries. By 20 February 2020, 75 748 cases (including 2 129 deaths) were reported, with 74 675 (99%) of these in China. Within China, 62 031 (83%) cases were reported from Hubei Province, where the outbreak began.
The disease has since spread internationall including Europe.
While WHO has reported that most people who have COVID-19 will experience a mild illness, elderly people and those with existing health problems are at greater risk of severe illness.
Advice to All Travellers
Prior to travel, the following should be checked:
- The Foreign and Commonwealth Office(FCO) site provides guidance for UK nationals travelling overseas, including how to seek consular assistance if required.
- Travel agents or airlines should be contacted for latest information on local travel restrictions and local authority guidance relating to COVID-19.
- Travel insurance is essential: the COVID-19 outbreak may impact your travel insurance coverage, ensure you carefullly check your travel insurance policy before travel.
The FCOcountries or territories pages should be checked prior to travel for the latest advice, including:
Information on COVID-19, including prevention advice, is available here.
Returning Travellers from areas affected by COVID-19
Returning travellers can check the latest advice on risk areas, including where returning travellers are required to self isolate:
- Travellers returning to Scotland should check here HPS website
- Travellers returning to other parts of UK should check here PHE website
Travellers from risk areas who develop symptoms on return to the UK, that are compatible with COVID-19, should self-isolate and contact one of the following:
- NHS 111 (England and Wales)
- 0300 200 7885 (Northern Ireland)
- NHS24 (Call 111) or their General Practitioner (Scotland)