Overview
Travel poses an increased risk of exposure to infectious diseases. For personal safety and the safety of others, anyone who chooses to travel should ensure they are in good health and practice good hygiene principles. Travelers should confirm itineraries, closely follow travel alerts and advisories related to their destination and place of return, and also be prepared for interruptions in travel logistics.
51吃瓜网 has a team of personnel, including the Global Safety, Health and Security Manager, Travel manager, and (VIRT) team, who are actively monitoring developments related to infectious disease outbreaks, and will adjust guidance accordingly.
Air Travel
Airports have tried to implement measures to limit the spread of infectious disease. Airports are closely monitoring queues, posting signage, and increasing physical barriers to separate passengers. Passengers are also encouraged to check-in online and many airports and enhanced screening measures may lead to longer wait times.
Airlines have increased sanitation and distancing measures aboard flights. Please know that adoption and enforcement of these measures varies among airlines.聽
Considerations for air travel聽
- Check with your airline about check-in/boarding procedures, when allowed check-in online and/or use an electronic ticket.
- Allow yourself more time before departure to account for increased wait times.
- Maintain a safe distance from other passengers and airport staff.
- Wear a face mask at all times and bring a spare one just in case. A KN95 mask is preferable to cloth.
- Pack hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in your carry on. Once on your flight, clean your tray table, window shade, armrests, and seat during boarding.
- Remain in your seat as much as possible and minimize movement around the cabin.
- Turn on the air vent above your seat.
- Consider bringing your own food and beverages.
Hotels and Accommodations
Accommodation options for travelers may be limited. Across the hospitality industry, many hotels have increased screening measures for employees and guests like temperature checks upon entry, enforced social distancing in common areas, lounges, restaurants, and bars. Some amenities like swimming pools, exercise facilities may be closed to guests depending on local regulations and space limitations. Wearing face masks may also be requirement.
Considerations for hotels and other accommodations
- When possible, book your stay in a venue that has to comply with local regulations on cleanliness and social distancing.
- Avoid under-regulated options where stringent health and safety measures cannot be guaranteed.
- Bring an adequate supply of face masks, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes for the duration of your stay.
- Practice routine good hygiene like hand washing for at least 20 second, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Practice social distancing of at least 6 feet from other patrons.
Ground Transportation: Taxis, Rideshares, and Car Rentals
Car rental companies and taxi and rideshare operators are also adjusting to the realities of the pandemic. Companies are also implementing health and safety measures including providing hand sanitizer and disinfecting vehicles before and after each trip. Taxis and rideshare operators should be following local health regulations and may require customers to wear face masks or sit in the back of vehicles to promote social distancing.
Considerations for ground transportation
- Wear a face mask and ride in the rear seat of the vehicle (if in a taxi or rideshare).
- Keep a window open for the duration of the journey.
- Handle your own luggage and wipe down your personal items after reaching your destination.
- Use cashless payment options, if possible.
- If using rideshare or other delivery service options for food or groceries, opt for contactless drop-off.
Public Transportation: Trains, Railways, and Buses
In order to prevent the spread of infectious disease public transportation operators may have adjusted their operating procedures to include a reduction in seat availability, requiring face masks, pre-boarding temperature checks, changes to payment methods, and daily sanitation.
Considerations for public transportation
- Use an electronic ticket, if possible.
- Allow enough time to accommodate for changes to boarding procedures.
- Maintain a safe distance from other passengers and staff.
- Wear a face mask at all times and bring a spare one just in case.
- Pack hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in your carry on. Before being seated, clean the areas around your seat.
- Remain in your seat as much as possible and minimize movement around the cabin.
- Consider bringing your own food and beverages.
Security Risks
Countries may institute travel restrictions, close borders, restrict access to certain municipalities within a country, or institute lockdowns and curfews in order to combat spikes in infectious disease cases. Depending on your location, there may also be an increased government, military, or law enforcement presence. Since the situation is very fluid, we encourage you to closely monitor local news for your destination and place of return.
In-country you may experience disruptions to essential services like healthcare, government agencies, mailing and delivery. Travelers should also be aware of the increased use of fraud through scams, phishing attacks, and malware. Strikes and civil unrest may be more likely to occur as the pandemic progresses due to dissatisfaction in government response and the economic impact of infections. There is also an increased risk for racism and xenophobic attacks toward individuals who are perceived to be responsible for the outbreak.
If you have questions or concerns about your destination, please reach out to the聽聽who can guide you toward relevant resources for assessing the security risks.
Resources
Global Advisories
Health Organizations聽
Data and Outbreak Monitoring