HPA requests caution when traveling abroad during holidays

Health Protection Agency (HPA) has advised caution when traveling abroad in the upcoming school holiday period.

HPA requested to remain alert regarding the Covid-19 disease, which is spreading fast globally when traveling abroad. In a statement issued today, HPA requested travelers to research on the conditions of the country of travel before departing.

The agency also stated that elderly people and people with long term illnesses to not travel abroad unless it was necessary and to remain aware of the safety and preventive measures taken in the country of travel.

Schools in the country will close for the midterm holidays tomorrow and will reopen on March 14. Holidays such as these are peak periods of travel by locals. The world is struggling to combat the disease which originated in China last December.

HPA also issued safety measures to be taken by travelers individually. They include frequent hand washing, sanitizing and keeping away from people with symptoms of illness. The agency also requested to thoroughly cool seafood and fish before eating and to avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Other measures also include refraining from visiting meat markets in the countries and obtaining medical care from the designated centers as soon as possible in case of symptoms develop when abroad.

HPA requested to remain at home in case fever starts developing within 14 days of returning and contacting 1676 to request medical care and provide information regarding the trip.