Countries Discourage Travel To Singapore, As Number Of Coronavirus Cases Increase
On 28 Jan, Singapore implemented a travel ban against Chinese nationals holding a Hubei passport.
After confirming 43 cases on Sunday (9 Feb), Singapore now has the highest number of coronavirus patients outside of China.
International cases arising from travel to Singapore are also emerging as the virus starts to spread.
Hence, countries like Kuwait and Qatar have advised against travel plans to our country, unless on urgent business.
Kuwait and Qatar issue travel advisory to citizens
Channel NewsAsia (CNA) reported that the Embassy of Kuwait in Singapore sent out an advisory on 7 Feb to encourage citizens to delay travel plans until the situation stabilizes.
As the DORSCON level rises to orange, they were also told to leave as soon as they can.
This is understandable considering that Singapore has seen a rise in local transmissions, with no link to previous cases.
This shows that the virus may be spreading on a community level.
Besides Kuwait, Qatar also urged its citizens to avoid Singapore as a travel destination as a precaution.
India and UK have less stringent travel advisory for travellers
In the United Kingdom (UK), a returning British citizen reportedly contracted the virus after attending a conference at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Singapore.
Travellers entering the UK from Singapore have since been advised to see the doctor should they exhibit any symptoms related to the coronavirus.
UK authorities are also calling for them to self-quarantine if possible.
Simultaneously, India is conducting temperature checks for passengers entering via Singapore and Thailand flights.
Staying safe amidst the virus
Although the presence of such travel advisories might feel threatening, do rest assured that the situation is still contained.
On our part, we need to exercise our civic responsibility and take note of personal hygiene.
Especially if you have to travel out of Singapore, do take extra care of yourself. Wear a mask if you are sick and wash your hands with soap regularly.
Featured image adapted from Google Maps.
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