MedAire blog

A novel (new) coronavirus has caused an outbreak of pneumonia in China. 

The outbreak originated among stall holders and people who visited the Huanan / South China Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan. There is evidence of human-to-human transmission, including among healthcare workers. 

Cases have been confirmed in people who travelled from Wuhan to Beijing and Shenzhen, as well as to Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand, with no further spread there (for more information see the medical alerts for Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand).

MedAire and International SOS are monitoring the situation closely. 

Travellers are advised to pay attention to general hygiene, avoid contact with sick people and avoid wet markets. Anyone with symptoms of pneumonia, which include high fever and shortness of breath should seek medical attention.

For the latest information about the virus, and other medical and travel safety events around the world, sign up for email alerts and review the information on the MedAire Portal. 

1. Go to Email Subscriptions to customise the information you would like delivered to your email inbox, including Alert Notifications for medical and travel related notices. These notices can be selected for all of the countries where you travel and/ or conduct operations. 

2. Visit Print/ Email Report to build custom reports for your upcoming destinations. You can include medical and travel safety risks, logistics information about travelling in country, and much more. Share the reports with crew and passengers in pre-travel briefings. 

3. Access Travel Security Online to see global headlines, view risk ratings, access the world calendar and more.

Do you have specific questions about safety in a particular area? MedAire’s medical and security team is available 24/7 to provide detailed advice and information. 

The team can provide intelligence on events and emerging developments that may impact your travel; as well as provide advice to reduce your exposure to travel risks. 

Refer to your MedAire Membership card for contact information; and be sure to programme the phone numbers in your mobile.