The World Health Organization(WHO) has published an outline of important considerations for national health authorities as international travel resumes gradually.
The list of factors by WHO that needs to be considered
WHO lists several factors that countries should consider while reopening borders, this includes the transmission patterns, local epidemiology, measures to control outbreaks, and health service capacity.
WHO warns, “There is no ‘zero risks’ when considering the potential importation or exportation of cases in the context of international travel.” And also states, “Therefore, thorough and continuous risk assessment and management will help identify, reduce and mitigate those risks, while balancing the socio-economic consequences of travel measures (or temporary restrictions) against potential adverse public health consequences.”
WHO’S general advice for travelers
As international travel resumes, WHO advises the travelers to practice good personal and hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, to maintain a physical distance of one meter or 3.3 feet from others and to wear a face-covering when needed. The organization also recommends that sick travelers, individuals such as elders, and those with chronic diseases or underlying health issues postpone their international travel to areas with community transmission. It is also recommended for travelers to self-monitor for the onset of symptoms for 14 days on arrival and to report any symptoms and also their travel history to local health facilities.
WHO also advises countries to not charge the travelers for necessary health examination, prophylaxis on arrival or vaccination, quarantine measures, certificates specifying the measures applied to them, or the baggage with them. The agency mentioned the importance of PCR testing immediately before departure or on arrival but also warns against the use of “immunity certificates” for international travel because of the lack of support from scientific evidence.
Also Read: 40% Of Global Nations Ease Travel Restrictions: UNWTO
