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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.
Many of the cases reported in other countries were infected in China or are identified contacts of such cases. Public health authorities are investigating those cases with no known link to China. In general, the number of cases outside China is small compared to the size of the populations of the countries affected.
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.
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 travel insurance coverage, travel insurance policies should be carefully checked before travel.
The FCO countries or territories pages should be checked prior to travel for the latest advice, including:
Information on COVID-19, including prevention advice, is available on TRAVAX for travel healthcare practitioners and fitfortravel for the travelling public.
Travellers to mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan or Thailand should be aware if they develop symptoms on return to the UK, that are compatible with COVID-19, they should self-isolate and contact one of the following:
There remains a risk of imported cases to the UK. Health professionals should remain vigilant for symptomatic individuals who may have COVID-19.
Guidance on testing as well as a range of other resource materials are available from: