These are really tough times filled with lots of uncertainty. No one can say for sure when things will go back to normal. This isn’t the ideal moment to travel anywhere, and we strongly advise against it. But if you’re already on a trip or living abroad for work or study, what should you do?
If you find yourself stuck in another country right now, should you be panicking or rushing to get home? Staying updated on the current situation is very important, but try not to let it stress you out—panicking won’t help anything. Make sure you’re getting your news from reliable sources, and steer clear of fake news. Talking to local people, including the staff at your hotel or guest house, can give you a better idea of what’s really going on, as sometimes local news isn’t always translated for tourists.
Know what the situation is like in the country you’re staying in and follow the local advice on what to do. If you’re there on a visa, find out what will happen when it expires. Many countries are offering emergency stay permits for those who overstay their visa, so check if that’s an option for you. If you need help, reach out to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
It’s crucial not to ignore any government warnings. If you’re told to stay home to help stop the spread of the virus, stay home! If there’s a lockdown, stick to the rules and only go out when allowed, usually to get food. Disobeying these laws can lead to fines or even detention.
In places without a lockdown, practice social distancing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Stay away from crowded places and avoid using public transport. Don’t attend or organize parties, and try to keep a distance of about 2 meters from others. Avoid traveling between cities or islands because you not only risk exposing yourself and others to the virus, but you might also get stuck somewhere you didn’t intend to be if a lockdown is announced.
Keep in mind that the situation can change rapidly, so stay informed and be flexible. Steer clear of people showing cold or flu-like symptoms. Make ethical choices during this time—don’t hoard supplies and leave enough for others. If a full lockdown is announced, you’ll usually get some notice, so use that time to stock up on necessities, but don’t overdo it.
Whether you’re at home or abroad, always maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands frequently, especially after being in public places, before eating, after using the bathroom, and after coughing or sneezing. It’s recommended to wash your hands with soap and running water for about 20 seconds. When soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitiser and make sure it covers all surfaces of your hands until they are dry. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose with unwashed hands, and regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
The common symptoms of coronavirus include fever, fatigue, and a dry cough. In severe cases, people may have difficulty breathing. Use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough, and dispose of the tissue right away. If you have a cough or runny nose, wearing a mask can help. If you feel sick, follow local guidelines for seeking medical advice. There’s no specific medicine to cure or prevent coronavirus, but you can manage symptoms by getting rest, keeping warm, and drinking plenty of fluids. Remember, antibiotics don’t work on viruses, including COVID-19—they only fight bacterial infections.
Most travel insurance won’t cover coronavirus treatment, especially in high-risk areas. These are challenging times with a lot of mixed information. People are losing jobs, feeling scared and isolated, and countries are closing their borders. It’s particularly tough for those who are stuck abroad or trying to get home.
Keep in mind that everyone’s response to this pandemic varies. While some remain calm, others may panic. It’s important to stay composed because it’s hard to think clearly when feeling anxious. Being calm doesn’t mean ignoring the seriousness of the situation.
If you decide to go home, know that it might be difficult because many borders are closed and flights are canceled. However, some countries are organizing emergency flights for their citizens, so check with your embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the latest updates on returning home.
Don’t travel if you have a fever and cough. Monitor your health closely for two weeks after returning from an affected country. Inform healthcare providers of your recent travel history if you need medical attention after getting home.
Stay safe and take care of your health!