Corona Virus Update

3/4/2020

Updated 3/17/2020

WHAT IS IT AND HOW TO TRAVEL SAFELY

World Health Organization (WHO): Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19, which it was unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.
Symptons of COVID-19: The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment.
Center for Diease Control (CDC): Transmission of the virus occurs by droplets from coughing or sneezing or direct contact. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.
Before Traveling: As a first step in planning any trip abroad, check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/
Get Travel Insurance: We always advice travelers to purchase travelers insurance. It is critical, especially for international travel, to know there are different types and coverages so you can purchase the right kind. Even a cancel for any reason coverage (CFAR) will not provide a complete refund. You wil still be subject to cancellation fees.

Before Traveling

As a first step in planning any trip abroad. It is important to check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination.
Conditions can change rapidly in a country at any time. To receive updated Travel Advisories and Alerts, choose the method that works best for you at travel.state.gov/stayingconnected

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Create an account at STEP.state.gov and provide the details of your specific trip, including dates of arrival and departure for the countries you choose.

Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Use and alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people that are sick.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don't have a tissue, Or sneeze or cough into your elbow to effectively prevent the fluids from spreading.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces including phone and bag handles