Novel coronavirus: update of recommendations for travelers

In light of the ongoing outbreak of the novel coronavirus, and given the new guidelines issued by the French Ministry of Health for people returning from China (mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao), Singapore, South Korea, or the regions of Lombardy and Veneto in Italy, the Institut Pasteur has taken the following measures:

All business travel to China will be postponed unless it is absolutely imperative. Institut Pasteur staff are also formally requested to postpone any private travel to China. Business travel to other destinations in Asia is permitted, subject to compliance with the procedure for missions to sensitive countries. But when planning such missions, it must be taken into consideration that the situation may worsen in ways that cannot be predicted at the current time. Any tightening of restrictions on travel in Asia may potentially affect such missions or the return to France of any individuals currently on mission.
Institut Pasteur staff are also invited to postpone any private travel to Singapore, South Korea, Iran or the regions of Lombardy and Veneto in Italy
In accordance with the recommendations of the French Ministry of Health, staff returning from China (mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao), Singapore, South Korea, Iran or the regions of Lombardy and Veneto in Italy will be required to work from home for 14 days following their arrival in France and to strictly adhere to the following guidelines:

• Monitor and make a note of your temperature twice a day, and:
- Wear a surgical mask around friends and family and if you leave the home
- Avoid any non-essential activities (cinema, restaurants, evenings out, etc.) and places where there are likely to be vulnerable individuals (hospitals, maternity clinics, rest homes, etc.)
- Wash your hands regularly

• If you develop a fever or feel feverish, or if you have a cough or breathing difficulties:
- Immediately dial 15 (France's emergency medical services) and inform them that you have recently returned from China
- Do not go to the doctor or to a hospital emergency department

Find out more (in French)s