Many Countries have implemented travel measures to control the spread of Omicron. The new COVID-19 variant is a matter of concern as it is believed that it is five times stronger than the delta variant. Read the full report for better insights.
Almost 23 countries including South Africa, Iceland, Ireland, etc., have confirmed cases of Omicron. The new variant of Coronavirus has been confirmed by WHO, but more studies on the same are yet to be done. The data on its contagiousness is expected within a few days, said Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO Epidemiologist.
Amidst worries of the new variant, more than 56 countries have imposed travel restrictions in order to halt the spread of infection. As the variant was first discovered in South Africa by health experts, many countries were reportedly implementing travel measures to and from South Africa.
These are the Countries Imposing Various Travel Restrictions
Keeping the severity of infection of this new variant in mind, different countries are implementing different travel measures.
United States
After reporting the first case of Omicron, the US has barred all foreigners who have been in one out of eight South African countries. The reports also said that the White House is also planning for strict testing rules for international visitors.
South Korea
The country has started quarantines after the number of cases increased.
Indonesia
Indonesia has tightened the border curbs, extended quarantine, and limited the unnecessary movement to halt the spread of the Omicron variant.
France
All travelers, irrespective of vaccination status, have to show a negative COVID-19 test report to enter France from European countries.
Denmark
Travelers from certain countries like South Africa, Zimbabwe, etc, are required to either self-quarantine for 10 days or show two negative reports taken on Day 4 or 6.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom too has tightened the COVID-19 measures. Travelers need to show a negative RT-PCR report taken within 48 hours of their arrival in the country.
Canada
Canada has restricted travel from 10 South African countries including Nigeria, Malawi, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Egypt, Mozambique, Lesotho, Eswatini, and South Africa. All the travelers would have to test on arrival and need to quarantine till the reports come out.
India
Whereas countries are taking every preventive measure to halt the spread of the new COVID-19 variant, India seems to overestimate its vaccination power. The country was planning to ban international flights but reversed its decision for Friday.
Besides these countries, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand, and several other countries are also guarding themselves against new Coronavirus variants by restricting traveling.