Covid-19 archived service updates
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UPDATE AS OF 14.52 (GMT) Monday 1st June
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Metro Manila, the capital region of the Philippines, has begun to ease the lockdown measures that have been in place since mid-March. More people will be allowed to return to work and shops will reopen. However, public facilities like gyms, cinemas, karaoke bars and nightclubs will remain shut.
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Japan is considering relaxing its entry ban on visitors from Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand, according to sources quoted in local media. From today, businesses will fully re-open and schools will resume classes in many of Japan's 47 prefectures. Some restrictions remain in place in Tokyo and six other prefectures.
In Mexico, businesses are beginning to resume operations, including car-part manufacturing plants and construction as well as beer factories and bike shops.
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A select number of primary school years resume in England today. Open air markets and car showrooms will be allowed to re-open with coronavirus-related measures in place.
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Hotels, B&Bs, caravan parks and other tourist accommodation can reopen in Northern Ireland from 20th July, provided the rate of infection remains under control.
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Shopping malls, car dealerships, dry cleaners, shoe repair stores, bookshops and launderettes are reopening in Moscow, Russia from today.
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South Africa is gradually easing its lockdown restrictions, with the sale of alcohol and movement within districts allowed from today. Final year students in primary and secondary schools will now report back to school on 8th June, after the Department of Basic Education delayed the resumption of classes for a week in order for schools to be better prepared.
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Across Europe, countries are further lifting restrictions. Primary schools reopen in Greece, as well as some hotels, open-air cinemas, public swimming pools and golf courses. Portugal's cinemas and theatres open their doors. Restaurants, cafes and museums open in the Netherlands, with bars serving customers again in Norway. Cultural sites are also opening. The Colosseum in Rome is once again allowing visitors, while the Grand Bazaar and Fatih mosque reopen in Istanbul.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.12 (GMT) Friday 29th May
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From 8th June in Northern Ireland Large non-food retailers can reopen, including car showrooms, electrical and phone shops. The restrictions will only be lifted if the scientific evidence indicates that the virus continues to be suppressed.
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The Welsh government will consider further easing at the next review of the lockdown on 18th June, including reopening non-essential retail and increasing capacity for childcare and public transport to support a wider return to work
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In England, from Monday, some non-essential retail will open, with more to come on 15th June, depending on the infection rate. Some bars, restaurants, beauty salons and leisure facilities may be able to open from 4th July. The Premier League is set to restart on 17th June with a full round of fixtures would then be played on the weekend of 19th-21st June. These dates are dependent on all necessary safety measures being in place.
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Further lifting of measures in France as nearly all mainland regions will be classed as “Green Zone” meaning restrictions can be eased faster. Cafes and restaurants can now reopen throughout the green zone. Only outside terrace areas can reopen in the orange zone. Restriction remain in Paris, but it will move into Orange from Red on 2nd June.
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South Korea is re-imposing some of its social-distancing measures in response to a recent uptick in new infections. Some schools are closing again and many more are delaying plans to reopen.
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Croatia has reopened its borders to 10 countries including many of its key tourism markets: Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Germany. Visitors will need to show a negative test for Covid-19 to enter.
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Spain has decided to move much of the country to Phase Two of lifting the lockdown on Monday with cinemas, theatres, concert halls and shopping centres allowed to reopen, but in a limited way.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.06 (GMT) Thursday 28th May
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Lockdown measures in the Russian capital would be partially relaxed from 1st June, with full details provided in the due course. Non-essential shops will reopen, as will providers of basic services such as dry cleaning.
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Saudi Arabia has begun to ease a five-day nationwide lockdown imposed during the festival of Eid. The 24-hour curfew has been partially relaxed except in the holy city of Mecca. Anyone wishing to leave home is required to obtain a permit through a government app. Measures will continue to be eased in phases over the next few weeks.
In Switzerland groups of up to 30 people can meet from Saturday.
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In Scotland, from Friday, garden centres and drive-through takeaways can reopen, some outdoor work can resume. The construction industry can start site preparation.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.18 (GMT) Wednesday 27th May
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South Africa is getting ready to lift some of its lockdown restrictions on 1st June. President Cyril Ramaphosa says churches and other recognised places of worship will be allowed to reopen, and that the overnight curfew currently in place will be lifted. Schools and some businesses are also going to open.
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The US has introduced a travel ban on foreign nationals who have been to Brazil in the last 14 days.
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Domestic flights within Saudi Arabia will resume on Sunday. The country will begin to gradually ease its pandemic restrictions this week and expects that by 21st June a curfew can end completely.
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South Korea has reported its biggest spike in coronavirus cases in two months. Forty new cases have been reported in the last 24 hours which is the highest increase in daily infections for 49 days.
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Germany has extended social distancing rules until 29 June. Up to 10 people will be allowed to meet in public they should still try to see as few people as possible.
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Luxembourg has begun reopening outdoor areas in bars and restaurants as it eases its lockdown measures.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
UPDATE AS OF 15.00 (GMT) Tuesday 26th May
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Japan has lifted its state of emergency, but warned it could be re-imposed if infections picked up. Limits on regional travel will be lifted on 19th June
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Argentina is extending the mandatory lockdown in Buenos Aires until 7th June after a steady increase in the city's confirmed cases
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The UK has announced that non-essential shops will be allowed to open from 15th June
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Spain says foreign visitors will no longer have to undergo a two-week quarantine from 1st July
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Iceland has also eased its restrictions, allowing gatherings of up to 200 people. Nightclubs and gyms are also allowed to reopen
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Saudi Arabia will lift its curfew across the country on 21st June, with the only exception being the holy city of Mecca - where shortened curfew hours will remain in place, from 3pm to 6am.
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The Czech Republic is opening its border crossings with Austria and Germany from today although restrictions on who is permitted to enter the country remain. Returning citizens, foreign residents, and European Union students and business travellers will be allowed in. Police will carry out spot checks on cars, and passengers will need to provide a certificate proving they do not have Covid-19 or else face two weeks of quarantine. From tomorrow, the border with Slovakia will reopen, but visitors from either side of the border will have to return within 48 hours.
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Pakistan's top health official has warned that lockdown might resume as cases and deaths rise.
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The US administration has brought forward new travel restrictions on Brazil, where coronavirus cases have risen sharply in recent days. The White House said on Monday that the restrictions will now come in effect today at 23:59 local time.
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The German government is seeking to lift the travel ban for 31 European countries next month. A draft document that goes to cabinet tomorrow recommends allowing travel to all 26 other EU states plus the UK and non-EU countries like Iceland and Norway that are in the border-free Schengen zone.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Friday 22nd May
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In a move to facilitate business meetings, citizens and legal foreign residents of Slovakia can visit the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Austria, Croatia, Slovenia, Germany and Switzerland as long as they return within 24 hours.
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Australia is seeking an exemption from moves in the UK to bring in a mandatory 14-day quarantine for all new arrivals claiming that the success in controlling the virus means the risk from Australians travelling in relatively low. International travellers could be fined £1,000 if they fail to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival in the UK, the government is expected to announce later.
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Many local councils in England say they cannot guarantee primary schools will reopen on 1st June.
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Schools will gradually reopen in Uruguay, after plans were announced to introduce a mixture of classroom-based and virtual lessons from 1st June.
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In Denmark, museums, art galleries and zoos are all allowed to open their doors from today, as are cinemas and theatres. All venues are expected to follow strict social distancing guidelines.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 14.55 (GMT) Thursday 21st May
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Turkey have lifted the requirement for a 14-day stay in a government run quarantine facility for all new arrivals. People will be tested as they enter the country and if they show a high temperature or any Covid-like symptoms they will be taken to a hospital for treatment, if no symptoms are present they would be permitted to return to their homes and isolate for 14 days. Turkish Airlines will resume operations on 10th June and Pegasus on 15th.
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The Greek Prime Minister says the country’s tourism season will begin on 15 June, with hotels set to reopen and international flights to the country slowly restarting from 1 July. There was also an announcement about a tax cut for travel within the country in a bid to boost the lockdown-hit economy.
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In the US, after Connecticut lifted some restrictions yesterday, every US state has now partially reopened after a two-month shutdown, however the degree of restrictions and what sectors are permitted to operate vary greatly.
Japan says it will lift its state of emergency in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo today as the number of virus cases continue to drop. Most places in the country have already had the state of emergency lifted, but it is still in place in Tokyo, and four other prefectures.
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In Pakistan, The Supreme Court on Monday ordered all shopping malls and markets to stay open even during weekends.
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EasyJet will resume some flights on 15 June, with all passengers and cabin crew told to wear face masks; the announcement said the airline would restart a "small number" of routes where there is enough customer demand.
Cyprus has announced an end to many of its lockdown measures. Outdoor areas for restaurants and pubs reopen today, as do hairdressers, parks, and playgrounds, and people can host up to 10 visitors in their homes.
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In Scotland, the first minister confirmed a "careful" relaxation of restrictions was planned from 28 May, allowing people to sunbathe, meet members of another household outside and travel short distances for exercise.
Construction sites will begin to reopen but workers in other sectors will continue to be encouraged to stay at home if they can work remotely. There will be a gradual reopening of drive-through food outlets, and garden centres and plant nurseries will be able to start operating with social distancing measures in place. Schools in Scotland will reopen from 11th August in a “blended model of part time in-school and part time at-home learning.”
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.00 (GMT) Wednesday 20th May
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The US administration is "likely" to extend non-essential travel restrictions at US land borders with Canada and Mexico. Border restrictions imposed on 21st March to help combat the pandemic were due to expire today.
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Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau described an agreement to extend the closure of the US border by a further 30 days as "an important decision that will keep people in both countries safe".
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In Canada, the province of Ontario will not reopen schools until September, this includes private schools and childcare centres.
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The pandemic is growing in Latin America. It is threatening vulnerable indigenous communities in the Amazon region shared by Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.
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Singapore has announced it will end its partial state of lockdown on 1st June, though most of the current guidelines remain will in place. The country’s measures will be progressively lifted in three phases. In this first phase more people will be allowed to return to their workplaces, to visit their parents and schools will gradually reopen. The second phase, where businesses like retail outlets and gyms may reopen, will depend on the progress made during the first phase.
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High school seniors are returning to school in South Korea today, with temperature testing in place and a requirement for masks to be worn. If a case is confirmed within a school, the school will switch back to online classes immediately. By using a phased approach, it is hoped that all the country's students will get back to school by 8th June.
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In Australia, the state of New South Wales will allow its residents to travel across the region for holidays from June.
India recorded more than 5,200 new infections yesterday, the biggest increase so far in a single day; it comes as the country begins to ease lockdowns measures, in which almost everything except essential services such as healthcare and food supplies was shut. Domestic flights will resume on Monday 25th May after a two-month break.
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Greece is expected to announce plans later that would allow in visitors from other European countries as early as 1st July.
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Spain has made it mandatory for everyone over the age of six or people with health issues are to wear a face mask in places such as shops, restaurants, and public transport, and outdoors as well if social distancing isn’t possible. The rules come into effect tomorrow. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has asked parliament to extend the country's state of emergency for another two weeks. The government wants to extend the state of alarm for a fifth time to 7th June when it expires on Saturday.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Tuesday 19th May
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With India extending its lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus until 31st May, states have been given more autonomy to ease restrictions. In Delhi, taxis, private cars and auto-rickshaws can operate between 07:00 and 19:00, while shops and marketplaces are also open. But in Mumbai, the city has been put into containment or "red" zones meaning only essential services are open. Various levels of restrictions are in place across the country.
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People in England are now being advised to wear face coverings in some enclosed spaces. The Government are saying people should aim to wear face coverings on public transport and in some shops and also in other "enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible and they come into contact with others that they do not normally meet". It is pointed out that these face coverings do not mean medical grade or surgical facemasks, or respirators. The Scottish government already recommends people wear them when in shops and on public transport. The Scottish government will publish a "route map" on Thursday setting out how coronavirus restrictions could be lifted on a phased-basis.
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Portugal has reopened creches, cafes, restaurants and many more shops, in a new phase of easing restrictions.
Spain has lifted a ban on all sea and air travel coming from Italy as it looks to further ease lockdown restrictions, officials have confirmed. Travellers from Italy will have to comply with a two-week quarantine like other foreign visitors, while a state of emergency remains in place.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Monday 18th May
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India has extended its nationwide lockdown until 31 May, although there are considerable relaxations.
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Italy reported 145 new deaths on Sunday, its lowest toll since 9th March. The country is set to further ease its lockdown measures from today with most businesses able to reopen.
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Several provinces along Spain’s Mediterranean coast in Valencia, in the southern region of Andalusia, and in the country’s interior move into phase one today. Cafes and restaurants in those places can now serve customers, but only at outdoor tables; groups of up to 10 people can gather in the street or in homes; and smaller cultural events are allowed to take place. Madrid and Barcelona are not yet in phase one, due to safety concerns, and therefore remain under tighter restrictions.
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Belgium is to begin reopening primary and secondary schools under strict conditions.
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Portugal, Denmark and Ireland are also easing their lockdown measures.
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Greece enters the third phase of the government’s plan to lift restrictions; from today Greeks are allowed to travel to neighbouring regions on the mainland, and ferries to Crete have restarted. Middle and high schools reopen as do shopping malls.
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A number of countries have announced stricter measures to prevent the spread of the virus during Eid al-Fitr. Saudi Arabia is planning a nationwide lockdown over the holiday, while Egypt will bring forward the start of its curfew by four hours and halt public transport for six days.
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Lebanon’s four-day lockdown has ended, although an overnight curfew will remain in place.
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Qatar and Kuwait have announced tough penalties for people who fail to wear a face mask in public. Those breaking the rules in Qatar risk up to three years in prison, while the maximum punishment in Kuwait will be three months.
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The Northern Ireland executive is meeting today to look at whether the scientific advice justifies lockdown measures being eased.
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Coronavirus lockdown measures in Scotland could begin to be lifted from 28th May, the first minister has announced.
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In the US, Several states, including South Carolina and Maine, are expanding their reopening measures from today. In Texas, it is expected that an announcement will be made confirming gyms, non-essential manufacturing and some work spaces will reopen from today with restrictions.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Friday 15th May
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Garden centres and recycling centres in Northern Ireland can reopen from next Monday as part of the first steps to ease lockdown, First Minister Arlene Foster has said. On Tuesday, the executive published a five-phase blueprint for lifting restrictions but it did not include a timeframe.
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Yesterday in Italy 262 coronavirus-related deaths were reported in the previous 24 hours, the highest daily tally since 7th May. Italy started easing lockdown restrictions on 4th May, with people now being allowed to visit their relatives in small numbers. Parks, factories and building sites are being reopened.
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Qatar has made the wearing of face masks compulsory, warning that anyone defying the order could face up to three years in prison or be fined more than $50,000 (£41,000). The Gulf state has currently more than 28,000 infections, with 14 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University's worldwide tally.
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Restaurants and cafes are reopening in Austria. Tables should be at least a metre apart, there should be a maximum of four adults plus children. No salt-shakers are allowed on tables.
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Slovenia has become the first European country to declare an official end to its coronavirus epidemic, in total it reported 1,464 cases and 103 deaths. The official end of the epidemic will allow EU citizens to cross at certain border points without having to quarantine.
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Germany will ease quarantine rules for visitors arriving from the EU and the UK, the interior ministry says. On Wednesday it began to open some border crossings with Austria, France and Switzerland. The country said it is aiming for "free travel" in the EU by June. Visitors will still be required to quarantine for 14 days if they are coming from a country with "elevated infections", an interior ministry spokesperson said.
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The Welsh government has revealed its roadmap for easing lockdown measures. Announcing the exit plan, First Minister Mark Drakeford said it would be based on a traffic light system - moving towards a "green zone" under which the most restrictions would be lifted. No dates were provided for when changes could be made with the government saying it would move "carefully and cautiously" in easing the lockdown.
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New York City's lockdown has been extended until 28 May at the earliest. New York State governor Andrew Cuomo announced the extension, while easing the shutdown in other parts of the state. Cuomo announced in a tweet that five regions of the state could now begin reopening non-essential businesses.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.01 (GMT) Thursday 14th May
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Further details regarding the European Commission’s guidelines for future travel were released yesterday. It advises member states to consider enforcing several methods to reduce the spread of the infection. These include:
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Airline and train passengers to buy tickets and check in online
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Physical distancing should be ensured at security checks and luggage drop off and collection
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Food, drink, and other goods may no longer be on sale on board flights, to limit contact
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Fewer passengers should be allowed on board aircraft, buses, trains, and ferries
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Passengers who are not from the same household should be seated apart
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Disinfectant gels should be available in vehicles, at airports, train stations and other transport hubs
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All transport staff should have protective equipment, with the possibility of protective barriers between the passengers and the driver on buses and trains
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Ventilation on flights and public transport should be strengthened both with air filters and natural ventilation
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Belgium's national security council has approved moving to the second phase of the country's plan to relax the lockdown next Monday. This will involve a partial reopening of primary and secondary schools under strict conditions, however nurseries will remain closed. Museums will be able to open from 18th May if they sell tickets online and take measures to limit crowds. Hairdressers and other businesses that require close contact with customers can reopen but must operate on a by appointment only system and with social distancing in the premises. Markets can reopen with a maximum of 50 merchants, but only if local authorities approve. Masks will be compulsory for sellers and recommended for customers. Social distancing and a "traffic" system for moving around will be required.
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Poland will allow hairdressers and restaurants to reopen from Monday as it continues to ease restrictions.
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Canada has asked the US to extend the ban on non-essential travel cross the border until June. A second 30-day extension would keep the border shut to tourists, visitors, and other non-essential travellers until 21st June.
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Carmakers Ford and Vauxhall have announced plans to restart production at UK factories. Ford is to resume work from 18th May at its engine plants in Dagenham, Essex, and Bridgend, South Wales. The company's engine plant in Valencia, Spain, will also start operations again - meaning that all of Ford's European manufacturing facilities will be open. Vauxhall’s van production plant in Luton will resume operations on the same date but the car production plant, Ellesmere Port, will remain closed.
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The Chilean government is to impose a total lockdown across the capital, Santiago, following a spike in the number of coronavirus infections. The new restrictions will affect eight million people and come into effect on Friday evening.
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Japan is expected to lift the state of emergency in most of the country today, although Tokyo, Osaka and other badly affected prefectures will keep continuing with restrictive measures for now. The state of emergency was meant to last until 6th May, but it was then extended to 31st May.
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Tunisia has reduced its nightly curfew hours for a second time. A 12-hour curfew that was introduced a little under a month ago to help combat the coronavirus was reduced to six hours from Wednesday night. The country has not recorded any new cases of the disease for three days. Some restrictions remain; large public events are banned, a permit is required for travel between regions, and shopping malls, bars and restaurants remain closed.
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A few days after Pakistan started to ease its lockdown, authorities in Sindh province have sealed some markets for flouting social distancing measures.
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New Zealand has moved into its next stage of reopening. Shopping malls, clothing shops, cinemas, garden centres, hairdressers, massage parlours and restaurants are all open for business. Bars will have to wait another week. New Zealand only started to exit its lockdown three weeks ago. It has reported no new cases for the past three days.
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Taiwan has gone a whole month without recording any domestically transmitted cases. In total just 440 cases and seven deaths were registered.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 14.55 (GMT) Wednesday 13th May
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In the UK from today people who are unable work from home, and who work in industries which are currently or able to reopen, are being “actively” encouraged to return. Workplaces are expected to be “Covid-safe” and follow guidelines issued by the government. These include manufacturing and construction sectors. Public transport is limited, and people are expected to maintain social distancing, again following guidelines set by the government, but there have been issues with following these due to the amount of people requiring the services.
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In California, USA, some shopping malls in certain counties will be allowed to partially reopen, though tattoo parlours, nail salons and gyms remain closed. The easing of restrictions comes as infections in California appear to be stabilising, but the state allows local governments to impose their own stricter guidelines. Areas like Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay area for example, have not yet eased restrictions.
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Thailand has reported no new virus infections for the past 24 hours. For the first time since 9th March the daily toll was zero.
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Germany will start to open some border crossings beginning Saturday; the border with Luxembourg and possibly Denmark. Border controls with France, Switzerland and Austria would be extended until 16th June, but as many crossings as possible will be opened.
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The European Commission has set out guidance for EU countries to resume travel and tourism from this summer onwards. Recommendations include ending blanket restrictions on free movement and replace them with more targeted measures over time. A coordinated approach with a phased introduction would allow seasonal workers across borders, followed by lifting restrictions between countries that have managed to get the virus under a comparable level of control. This would be followed by the opening of all internal borders, and countries should not discriminate against any other EU countries.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.05 (GMT) Tuesday 12th May
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In the UK, the Prime Minister appeared before the House of Commons and also hosted a press conference in order to provide further details and clarification after his statement on Sunday evening. While no new action or policy was announced, it was confirmed that from Wednesday, those who can not work from home but whose sectors are open should return to work. Employers are responsible for ensuring that workspaces are “Covid-safe”. Public transport will be subject to social distancing measures and limited services will be available. Workplace and Public transport guidance will be released soon. A limited number of school classes will be reopened from 1st June at the earliest and other entertainment venues can reopen from July; again, all these measures are subject to a reduction in infection rates. People can now leave the house as often as they wish for exercise and can travel a reasonable distance to do so.
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In Russia, the “non-working days” period ends today, and Vladimir Putin confirms regional authorities would have a final say on whether to ease the current restrictions.
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New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced the first easing of the state's lockdown, saying that some low-risk businesses can reopen starting on Friday. The number of cases in New York has been falling daily and are now at levels similar to mid-March.
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In Kyiv, Ukraine, the easing of quarantine restrictions means that shops, beauty salons, hairdressers, parks and squares are all open again. Restaurants and cafes are also allowed to resume service - but only if the tables are carefully spaced and outside.
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All overseas travellers arriving in Spain will have to undergo a 14-day quarantine, starting on 15th May. They will only be allowed out for medical reasons or for groceries and will have to wear masks when doing so. Restrictions will be eased in two-week blocks until 10 June, but only in some parts of the country. Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, Malaga and some regions in the north-east will stay under full lockdown for the moment.
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In Greece shops are now all able to reopen from 11 May and indoor shopping centres can do so on 1 June. Cafes and restaurants will be allowed to open on 1 June, but only with outdoor seating and clear distance between chairs.
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UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Monday 11th May
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Further easing of restrictions in Germany led to an increase in the rate of infections, causing some alarm that lockdown measures could be reapplied. However, it should be noted that there was also an increase in the rate after earlier relaxation but these again fell after a short period and numbers are slowly falling according to early reports. Due to weekend delays in reporting numbers, though, it may be a few days before any accurate assessments can be made.
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There are areas of China that are seeing an increase in infections, prompting fears of a second wave. Wuhan saw five new cases, the largest increase since 11th March. However, overall, numbers are still low and most cases are imported; no new deaths were reported.
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South Korea is renewing some restrictions after a cluster of new infections linked to entertainment venues in Seoul.
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As Spain emerges from it’s lockdown measures it has reported the lowest number of deaths in two months. In some regions gathering of up to ten people will be allowed and restaurants can reopen their outdoor areas as long as they comply with social distancing measures.
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Across Europe several countries ease certain restrictions. Clothes shops, bookshops, florists and certain beauty salons will reopen in France, but restaurants and other entertainment venues remain closed. Primary schools will start again but with a very limited number of pupils.
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Most businesses in Belgium reopen, but again not restaurants, cafes, cinemas, or other entertainment venues.
Primary schools in the Netherlands will partially reopen along with Libraries, some beauty salons and some other services.
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Both Primary and Middle schools in Switzerland will reopen but with reduced class sizes. Restaurants,, bookshops and museums will have to follow certain restrictions as they resume also.
Shopping centres can reopen today in Denmark.
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Hotels in Poland to reopen, although foreign visitors will still have to quarantine for two weeks.
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In the UK, different measures are being used in each of the home countries. Yesterday the Prime Minister announced the pathway to easing the lockdown and called for those who cannot work from home to go to work, although it was also announced that public transport will be limited and subject to social distancing measures; Scotland renewed its call for people to stay home, Northern Ireland will discuss today its plans with the lockdown there to last until at least 28th May, and in Wales certain restrictions on daily exercise have been eased and garden centres are to reopen. Also, those coming into the country will be required to undergo a 14-day quarantine, except for those coming from France or Ireland, however no start date for these measures were announced. Further detail and clarifications will be made by the Prime Minister today.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the end of the nationwide "non-working days period" from Tuesday. However, it was not clear if or when people could return to work.
Australian measures continue to be eased and people will be able to visit friends and relatives across the whole country by the end of this week. In the state of Victoria these measures will be relaxed from midnight Tuesday, but restaurants will remain closed. In New South Wales restaurants can reopen from Friday but with a 10-person limit. Queensland begins it’s relaxation of measures from today.
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The New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern has announced a further loosening of the country's restrictions, with shops, malls, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and other public spaces allowed to reopen on Thursday with social distancing. Schools can reopen from 18th May, but bars must wait until 21st May. Currently there are only 90 active cases in the country.
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Tunisia has recorded no new cases for the first time since early March, health authorities said. The government announced it would relax restrictions on movement and businesses.
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Thursday 7th May
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Iceland says it has almost entirely eliminated its outbreak of coronavirus. Only two new cases have been confirmed in the past week and 97% of all infected patients have recovered.
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Belgium will allow shops to reopen from Monday as lockdown restrictions are eased. Businesses that do not have contact with the public have already re-started work, however schools, restaurants and bars will remain closed.
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Spain's parliament voted to extend the country's state of emergency for another two weeks, to allow the government to control movement as it loosens restrictions.
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In the Netherlands a number of restrictions were eased. On 11th May schools and day cares will reopen, with beauty salons and libraries also opening. From 1 June everyone on public transport must wear a face mask, also bars can reopen their terraces but only under a reservation system to ensure a limited number of patrons to allow for social distancing. Restaurants, bars, cinemas, theatres and museums can start operating again, under the same conditions and a maximum of 30 people. As of 1 July, camp sites and churches can open doors again, maximum allowed in restaurants increases to 100.
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The UK government is expected to begin discussions today on how to release the lockdown measures. Any details will be announced on Sunday, but it is widely expected that from Monday 11th some easing of restrictions could begin.
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New Zealand announced the possibility of re-opening most elements of society as soon as next Wednesday. Under "Level 2" lockdown home gatherings should still be small, but up to 100 people will be able to attend events like weddings. People will be able to go back to work or school, restaurants can re-open with tables spaced apart, and travel around the country will be allowed again. Public facilities can re-open, and sport competitions can resume too. A decision and time frame for this is expected Monday.
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In France, the government will today advise on the methods it will use to lift the lockdown restrictions. The country has been divided into green and red regions - those less and more affected - and restrictions will be lifted in different ways, depending on the colour.
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International Airlines Group (IAG), which owns British Airways (BA), Aer Lingus and Iberia, says it is planning a "meaningful return" of flights in July at the earliest if lockdown measures are eased, but the company said the plans were "highly uncertain", and subject to various travel restrictions.
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The lockdown is to be extended in Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced, saying it was too soon to make meaningful changes without risking a resurgence of the virus.
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Throughout the United States, lockdown restrictions are being lifted in phases, meaning shopping centres are beginning to reopen, although with a reduction in the numbers allowed in.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Wednesday 6th May
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Austria’s Health Minister Rudi Anschober says the first relaxation of its coronavirus lockdown three weeks ago has not led to a new increase in infections. Small shops, garden centres and DIY stores re-opened on 14 April. All shops, hairdressers and beauty salons have been allowed to reopen in the second step of easing restrictions. People are now free to leave their homes, although working from home is still encouraged.
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Angela Merkel will hold talks with the heads of the 16 German states today regarding lifting the restrictions further. State leaders will be responsible for the speed in which certain measures are lifted, such as how and when restaurants, cinemas etc. can reopen. However, there are also stipulations that if infections rise above a certain rate, restrictions will have to be imposed again. Large shops will be able to reopen, those in residential care homes will be allowed to have visitors, and two households will be able to meet together in public. Social distancing rules will stay in place until 5 June.
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Although the lockdown measure in Spain have begun to be eased, the government will discus extending the State of Emergency measures, although this will meet with opposition.
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According to some reports, the UK government has drawn up a three-stage plan to ease the coronavirus lockdown. The measures are expected to be announced Sunday, while the review into the lockdown is due tomorrow. The first phase will involve small shops reopening alongside outdoor workplaces while the second will include large shopping centres reopening and more people encouraged to go to work. The last to reopen will be entertainment venues such as pubs and restaurants. No time frame for these phases was advised.
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The Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have agreed to reopen borders to each other from 15th May, although anyone travelling with be subject to a 14-day self-quarantine period.
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Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon announced that the lockdown in Scotland will last for at least another three weeks.
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Colombia's mandatory quarantine will be extended by a further two weeks, although some sectors will be allowed to return to work.
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Uruguay is beginning to resume activity in public offices and shops in the capital, Montevideo. Those who do not need to work have been asked to remain at home.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 14.55 (GMT) Tuesday 5th May
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Finland is going to allow restaurants, public services including libraries and sports facilities to reopen on 1 June. A ban on public meetings will also be eased from a maximum of 10 people to 50 people on the same day, the government said on Monday.
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New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said in his Monday briefing that current data showed that no region of the state is yet ready to reopen. At least six more US states are loosened social distancing measures from Monday. Around half of US states have begun taking steps to reopen, even as health officials warn that the pandemic is not yet under control.
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Turkey's coronavirus containment restrictions will be eased by mid-May, including reopening of shopping centres, hair salons and some stores.
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In Germany, Bavaria's state premier revealed how the state would ease its lockdown. From Wednesday, people will be able to see family members and playgrounds will reopen. And from next Monday, shops of any size can reopen though the use of face masks and social distancing measures remain in place.
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In France, about 30 miles of some of Paris's busiest roads will be bicycles only when the lockdown is eased to limit the numbers using public transport. Another 30 streets will be made pedestrian-only. Mayor Anne Hidalgo says some of the street closures could become permanent.
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In the US 1,015 virus deaths were recorded over the past 24 hours, its lowest one-day tally in a month.
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New Zealand, which has recorded no new cases for a second day in a row. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern joined Australia's official virus cabinet meeting (via phone) to discuss a potential "travel bubble" between the two nations. However, she also advised that travel from other parts of the world would not be possible for “a long time to come”.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Monday 4th May
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Several countries will lift some of the restrictions imposed by lockdown measures from today.
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In Europe, Portugal allows small stores to reopen and will gradually ease the restrictions that were begun in April. Germany will allow stores under 800sq m to reopen and will allow some schools to begin again. Smaller business such as DIY stores and bicycle shops will resume opening in Belgium. In Italy restrictions on movement have been eased allowing people to visit family members and about four million people are expected to go back to work, although face masks will be mandatory at work and on public transport. Spain will also allow smaller business to reopen; some of the country's islands will loosen restrictions even further, as they have not been as badly affected as the mainland. Poland allows hotels, libraries, museums and shops to reopen, but hairdressers, restaurants and playgrounds remain shut.
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In Malaysia the majority of businesses will be allowed to resume.
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In India, stand-alone shops, but not malls or markets, can reopen.
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After seemingly prevented a larger outbreak, Thailand will allow restaurants the resume trading, although they must ensure certain social distancing restrictions.
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Jordan has lifted all restrictions on economic activity, allowing all businesses and industries to resume.
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In Hong Kong civil servants are returning to the offices after weeks of working from home. The government is also set to relax some social-distancing measures, and gyms and cinemas might be allowed to reopen this week, according to local media.
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In order to mitigate the damage to the economy, Nigeria is today lifting some restrictions in Ajuba and Lagos. Shops and markets will be allowed to open until mid-afternoon however public gathering are still banned and an overnight curfew is still in place. Schools remain closed. The government advises this first phase of a six-week process will be reviewed in two weeks, with further easing of restrictions if results show a positive effect.
In South Africa people have been allowed to return to work but must continue to observe distancing, the wearing of masks and washing hands.
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Yesterday in New Zealand there were no fatalities and there were no new infections recorded.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 14.54 (GMT) Friday 1st May
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The spread of the coronavirus in Denmark has not accelerated since lockdown measures started to be loosened earlier this month. The so-called R0 rate, which shows the average number of infections one person with the virus causes, has increased a little since mid-April but remains below 1. Meanwhile, Germany began easing restrictions at the beginning of last week. It is also seeking to achieve a R0 rate below one.
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In early March the German rate was three but by mid-April it was below one. On Monday evening, that rate did rise briefly to one before falling back again. Germany and Austria continue with the easing of lockdown restrictions from today as more shops are permitted to open.
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United States: The stay-at-home order in Texas has expired; stores, theatres and restaurants will be allowed to resume business, albeit at limited capacity. Georgia's order has also expired, and the governor is due to decide whether it will be extended. Alabama, Tennessee, West Virginia, Ohio and Idaho will begin phased re-openings from today, though some restrictions will still be in place, like limits on gatherings or certain types of businesses. Florida has extended its stay-at-home order to 4th May, when the governor says most of the state can begin reopening.
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UK: On his first briefing appearance since recovering from Coronavirus, PM Boris Johnson claimed that the country was now past the peak of infection. He also announced that comprehensive plan laying out the series of measures to about how the country will be brought out of lockdown will be released next week.
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Malaysia: Many businesses will be allowed to reopen, however those that involve a large gathering of employees will remain closed.
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Australia: After initially being set for review around 11th May, social distancing restrictions could now be eased next week with the new review date now set as 8th May.
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South Africa: Lockdown restrictions are beginning to be eased from today. Some businesses will be permitted to reopen, restaurants can begin to run delivery services and leaving home to exercise will be allowed. However, there is still a ban on alcohol sales and strict overnight curfews are in place.
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India: The lock down period has been extended by two weeks. It was originally due to end on 4th May.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 14.54 (GMT) Thursday 30th April
Germany: Germany is extending its travel ban for unnecessary international travel until 14th June. Foreign Minister Heiko Maas says the warning, which had been due to expire 3rd May, is being extended because there has been no change to the danger posed by the coronavirus pandemic. 1,478 new cases were recorded for the previous day, marking the fourth day that new infections went up.
Switzerland: From May 11th all shops, restaurants, museums, and bars will be permitted to reopen. It had already been announced that schools would reopen the same day. The decision was taken as the number of cases and resulting hospitalisations was falling faster than expected. There will still be a number of restrictions in place, including limiting numbers allowed in restaurants and social distancing, the ban on large gatherings will remain in place. At the same time countrywide tracing will begin, with quarantine orders for virus cases and all their contacts.
Russia: The ban on foreign nationals entering the country, not including the specific exemptions has been extended until the Covid-19 pandemic has been contained, but no timeframe was given as to when restrictions may be reviewed.
Australia: Australian Capital Territory (ACT) region has become the first to eliminate the virus, officials say. The ACT includes Canberra, the nation's capital city, and has a population of 426,000 people. Government officials said the last known patients recovered from the virus on Thursday, meaning there were no more known cases. Other Australian jurisdictions are also on their way to reaching zero, with South Australia reporting no new infections for a seventh consecutive day.
South Korea: In February, South Korea had one of the worst outbreaks in Asia outside mainland China, but now local infections have fallen to zero. There is, however, a great deal of caution; the Korean Centre for Disease Control has announced that it is inevitable that this pandemic will return, and they are urging people to keep to a daily routine of staying home if they feel ill, washing their hands, keeping some distance and not gathering in large groups.
Portugal: A detailed plan for easing its lockdown in phases is due to be announced today. It is expected to allow small local shops and hairdressers to reopen from Monday.
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS OF 15.42 (GMT) Wednesday 29th April
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A new anti-body test claiming to have an accuracy of 99% has been certified for use across Europe. Abbot, a global diagnostics specialist, has said they are expecting to have millions of the tests in labs across Europe by the end of May.
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Spain: An announcement was made regarding a four-phase plan to lift the restrictive lockdown measures. The hope is that a return to what was referred to as a “new normality” by the end of June.
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France: Further information on how lockdown restrictions will be eased. The plan will be rolled out in different areas of France, but strict rules will remain in place in regions worst affected by the outbreak. The proposal calls for younger children (kindergarten and elementary school age) to return to school first, with middle schools reopening a week later. Schools reopening for older children will be decided at the end of the month.
Shops and markets will be allowed to reopen, but entertainment venues, bar, cafes and restaurants will remain closed. Retailers will be able to make the wearing of masks a requirement.
Masks will be compulsory on public transport and in schools above kindergarten grades.
The state of emergency in France may be extended until 23rd July which will allow the government to continue restricting movements and businesses.
It was stressed, however, that all these easing of measures is dependant of a drop to 3000 infections or less per day by 11th May and that those who are able to work from home should do so for at least three more weeks.
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United States: Governor Andrew Cuomo says some regions of New York State could begin to loosen some restrictions from 15th May, although this would be dependant on meeting certain targets including a consecutive decline in new infections for at least 14 days. Areas where hospitals are at 70% capacity or above will not be included in these plans nor will areas where transmission rates are above 1.1.
New York City will not be reopening at the same time.
Manufacturing and construction will most likely be the first sectors to restart operations as they will be most ready to put precautions in place
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Canada: The social distancing measures in Canada appear to be having a positive impact to the point that some provinces are planning for the lifting of restrictions. Quebec plans to reopen schools as early as 4th May with the manufacturing and construction sectors to start again the same day, although there may be continued restrictions in Montreal.
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UK: In the first glimpse of what the plan to release lockdown measure in the UK could be, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson advised that the reopening of schools would need to be done in a “phased” way, and would not likely be until the autumn.
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
Youcall-it.com Statement 28th April 2020
UPDATE AS OF 15.01 (GMT) Tuesday 28th April
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The downward trend continues in the Chinese city of Wuhan, where the outbreak emerged last December. A health official reported that the city now has no remaining Covid-19 cases in its hospitals.
In South Korea, life is also slowly starting to get back to normal. The country’s large churches have re-opened, though worshippers are required to wear masks and keep a distance.
In Italy, restrictions will be eased from 4th May, with people being allowed to visit their relatives in small numbers. Parks will reopen but schools will not restart until September. Italy recorded 260 new deaths on Sunday – its lowest daily figure in more than a month.
In additional to previous reporting the following updates have been received:
Australia: Some states have begun relaxing restrictions, with Queensland set to bring back picnics and car trips, while Western Australia will now allow 10-person gatherings, up from the previous limit of two. New South Wales and Victoria will continue with more restrictive measures until at least 11th May, when a national review is due. The government has directly tied the use of the COVIDSafe app to the idea of Australians resuming normal life as soon as possible.
New Zealand: At midnight, New Zealand will lift some of its nationwide lockdown measures, moving down one level on its alert scale. Overall, there have been fewer than 1,500 cases in New Zealand and around 80% of those have already recovered. The deaths of 19 people have been linked to the virus.
US: Some US states are beginning to lift lockdown orders. Georgia, Oklahoma, Alaska and South Carolina have already allowed some businesses to reopen, while Tennessee and Mississippi will see measures easing on Monday.
Italy: From 4th May, people will be allowed to visit their relatives - only in small numbers, and only wearing masks. People will also be allowed to move around within their regions, parks will reopen, restaurants will do takeaway, funerals can be held again but with a maximum of 15 people and athletes are allowed to resume training. More services like hairdressers and beauty salons will reopen on 1 June. Schools, though, will not restart classes until September.
India: Some of its lockdown rules were relaxed over the weekend, it allowed small local stores to reopen after more than a month.
UK: The UK appears to have passed the peak of the virus, weekend figures show. Both the number of new cases and deaths appear to be decreasing steadily. However, England's deputy chief medical officer, Prof Jonathan Van-Tam, last week warned against ending measures too quickly. The prime minister’s official spokesman says that we could hear more about how the government will judge the UK's ability to “move forward” by the end of the week.
Germany: After beginning to ease lockdown measures last week today it was made mandatory to wear masks outside.
Sri Lanka: The lockdown measure have extended it for another week after a spike in cases after they were due to be lifted from today.
Switzerland: Hairdressers and garden centres have reopened, and students will return to school from 11th May.
Malta: No new cases of the virus reported over the previous 24 hours on Sunday – the first time this has happened in more than six weeks.
Czech Republic: From today, people are legally allowed to leave the Czech Republic and travel to any destination they wish, although there are virtually no flights or trains. Anyone who leaves will need to present a negative Covid certificate on their return, or face 14 days of quarantine. The only outsiders being let in are EU business travellers or university students, also requiring negative Covid certificates or quarantine. The next stage of easing domestic restrictions begins today, with large retail outlets, gyms, libraries and zoos (outdoor spaces only) amongst the latest to open.
UPDATE AS OF 15.01 (GMT) Monday 27th April
The downward trend continues in the Chinese city of Wuhan, where the outbreak emerged last December. A health official reported that the city now has no remaining Covid-19 cases in its hospitals.
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In South Korea, life is also slowly starting to get back to normal. The country’s large churches have re-opened, though worshippers are required to wear masks and keep a distance.
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In Italy, restrictions will be eased from 4th May, with people being allowed to visit their relatives in small numbers. Parks will reopen but schools will not restart until September. Italy recorded 260 new deaths on Sunday – its lowest daily figure in more than a month.
In additional to previous reporting the following updates have been received:
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Australia: Some states have begun relaxing restrictions, with Queensland set to bring back picnics and car trips, while Western Australia will now allow 10-person gatherings, up from the previous limit of two. New South Wales and Victoria will continue with more restrictive measures until at least 11th May, when a national review is due. The government has directly tied the use of the COVIDSafe app to the idea of Australians resuming normal life as soon as possible.
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New Zealand: At midnight, New Zealand will lift some of its nationwide lockdown measures, moving down one level on its alert scale. Overall, there have been fewer than 1,500 cases in New Zealand and around 80% of those have already recovered. The deaths of 19 people have been linked to the virus.
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US: Some US states are beginning to lift lockdown orders. Georgia, Oklahoma, Alaska and South Carolina have already allowed some businesses to reopen, while Tennessee and Mississippi will see measures easing on Monday.
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Italy: From 4th May, people will be allowed to visit their relatives - only in small numbers, and only wearing masks. People will also be allowed to move around within their regions, parks will reopen, restaurants will do takeaway, funerals can be held again but with a maximum of 15 people and athletes are allowed to resume training. More services like hairdressers and beauty salons will reopen on 1 June. Schools, though, will not restart classes until September.
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India: Some of its lockdown rules were relaxed over the weekend, it allowed small local stores to reopen after more than a month.
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UK: The UK appears to have passed the peak of the virus, weekend figures show. Both the number of new cases and deaths appear to be decreasing steadily. However, England's deputy chief medical officer, Prof Jonathan Van-Tam, last week warned against ending measures too quickly. The prime minister’s official spokesman says that we could hear more about how the government will judge the UK's ability to “move forward” by the end of the week.
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Germany: After beginning to ease lockdown measures last week today it was made mandatory to wear masks outside.
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Sri Lanka: The lockdown measure have extended it for another week after a spike in cases after they were due to be lifted from today.
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Switzerland: Hairdressers and garden centres have reopened, and students will return to school from 11th May.
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Malta: No new cases of the virus reported over the previous 24 hours on Sunday – the first time this has happened in more than six weeks.
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Czech Republic: From today, people are legally allowed to leave the Czech Republic and travel to any destination they wish, although there are virtually no flights or trains. Anyone who leaves will need to present a negative Covid certificate on their return, or face 14 days of quarantine. The only outsiders being let in are EU business travellers or university students, also requiring negative Covid certificates or quarantine. The next stage of easing domestic restrictions begins today, with large retail outlets, gyms, libraries and zoos (outdoor spaces only) amongst the latest to open.
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Further information can be found at
https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​For travel advice:
and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
UPDATE AS OF 14.52 (GMT) Tuesday 28th April
Promising news from Oxford University's Jenner Institute. It believes it has produced an effective vaccine, and plans to carry out clinical tests on 6,000 people before the end of May. The Jenner vaccine was tested on six rhesus macaque monkeys at the US National Institutes of Health’s Rocky Mountain Laboratory in Montana last month. The monkeys were exposed to high doses of the virus, and all six remained healthy 28 days later. Monkeys without the vaccine fell sick, according to a New York Times report.
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Both Spain and Greece will announce further ways of easing restrictions soon.
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Portugal’s government is holding a closed-door meeting with health officials, and has said the discussions are key in any move toward loosening the lockdown
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In addition to the previous updates we are reporting the following:
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UK: The UK is at "the moment of maximum risk", Prime Minister Boris Johnson said - adding that lockdown rules will remain in place for now.
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Scotland: First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has unveiled new guidance by the Scottish government, saying people should cover their faces when they're in enclosed public spaces.
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India: A total of 85 districts across more than 20 states have not reported any new infections in the last two weeks, officials said on Monday. The government has also said that five out of eight states in India's northeast have no Covid-19 cases.
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Australia: In the past day, Australia recorded just one case of the virus from an unknown source, and 12 cases overall.
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Germany: After easing lockdown restrictions officials have warned that the infection rate is increasing - and is now at 1 again. This means 10 infected people will infect another 10 people. Last week, the rate had dropped to 0.7, meaning ten infected would pass the virus to only seven people.
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France: Prime Minister Edouard Philippe will lay out how France will slowly exit its lockdown restrictions from 11th May. There will be a debate followed by a vote on the plans, which controversially involve children returning to school against the advice of the national scientific council.
-
Netherland: After loosening lockdown restrictions the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the Netherlands rose by only 171 to 38,416 Tuesday, with 48 new deaths recorded.
​Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
Youcall-it.com Statement 24th April 2020
UPDATE AS OF 13.55 (GMT) Friday 24th April
​
China again reported no coronavirus deaths for the past day, making it a full week without fatalities.
​
There have been no reported deaths from Covid-19 in South Korea in the last 24 hours, the first time in a month that has happened.
​
Some promising news from Spain, where the number of new coronavirus-related deaths has dropped to the lowest daily level in over a month.
​
In addition to those listed below we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
​
-
Malaysia: Most lockdown measures extended for two weeks until 12th May but Government is looking at allowing some sectors to resume business.
-
Philippines: Lockdown of Manila and other high risk areas extended until 15th May.
-
Indonesia: Temporary ban on domestic air and sea travel, starting today.
-
Australia: Less than a dozen new cases have been recorded nationally overnight and New South Wales, the worst-affected state, has urged anyone with even mild symptoms to go for testing so restrictions can be relaxed sooner.
-
UAE: The UAE is also relaxing its lockdown to allow people out between 06:00 and 22:00. It may that these restrictions will be reinstated after Ramadan.
-
Pakistan: The government has agreed to open mosques for Ramadan prayers after a month-long closure. Top doctors’ associations have since warned of an "unmanageable" spike in cases next month if the decision to open mosques for collective prayers is not revised.
-
UK: Two volunteers in the UK have been injected with a potential vaccine in the first human trial to take place in Europe. Sarah Gilbert, professor of vaccinology at the Jenner Institute, said she was "80% confident" the vaccine would work, but now prefers not to put a figure on it, saying simply she is "very optimistic" about its chances.
-
South Africa: An easing of some lockdown restrictions will begin next month due to economic concerns. From 1 May, some businesses will be allowed to reopen, and a third of their employees can return to work. However, President Cyril Ramaphosa warned that most people should remain at home, public gatherings remain banned, and the country’s borders will stay closed.
-
Egypt: Night curfew hours in will be shortened during Ramadan. It will begin at 21:00, an hour later than usual.
-
Poland: The government has decided to extend the closure of schools, pre-schools and universities until 24th May and will announce a decision on introducing the second stage of easing restrictions next week.
-
Belgium: A panel of experts is to set out plans for easing the lockdown, starting on 4 May, with a wider easing on 18 May. Initially DIY stores, bike shops and some other small businesses will reopen. Then on 18 May schools are expected to reopen, along with hairdressers. But leisure facilities, such as gyms and cinemas, will remain shut.
-
Italy: Government apparently preparing for “Phase 2”, an easing affecting much more of daily life than the very limited easing that started on 14 April. So far, some small shops, besides those selling food and medicines, have reopened. Phase 2 means resuming construction and manufacturing and reopening more public transport. Social distancing and mask-wearing will remain in force. Some easing could start as early as Monday.
-
Czech Republic: Government has lifted a ban on free movement from today. Czechs will be able to move outside in groups of up to 10. Travel abroad will also be permitted from Monday, though with strict conditions. Czechs will be tested for coronavirus on re-entering the country. EU citizens will be allowed in but must have proof of having tested negative in recent days.
​
​Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.52 (GMT) Thursday 23rd April
​
In addition to those listed below we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
​
-
UK: Some disruptive social measures to continue for at least the rest of the year, chief medical adviser has said. Reports that schools could reopen from 1st June, but these have been downplayed by the Education Minister.
-
Australia: Just seven new cases recorded overnight - further solidifying the infection rate's drop to under 1% from 25% in mid-March. Rumours of certain types of stores reopening mid-May, and a slow reopening in other retail sectors.
-
New Zealand: Plans to move into a lighter lockdown next week after managing to contain the virus's spread. New Zealand enacted a full shutdown of public life last month, before its first death was recorded.
-
Vietnam: Vietnam is set to ease social distancing measures in the capital, Hanoi, and the commercial capital Ho Chi Minh City, as the rate of infection in the country slows down. Stringent social distancing rules will be eased and non-essential services and businesses have reopened.
-
Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland may emerge from coronavirus restrictions at a different pace than other parts of the UK, First Minister Arlene Foster says. She said measures would be eased when scientific and public health criteria were met, regardless of timetables or dates.
-
Turkey: A four-day lockdown across 31 provinces begins today. Some stores and workers are exempt from the curfew
-
Czech Republic: The government is meeting today to discuss whether to extend a state of emergency into next month and how and when to re-open the country's borders.
​
​Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.55 (GMT) Wednesday 22nd April
​
In addition to those listed below we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
​
-
Germany: 2,237 new positive tests over the past day, official numbers on Wednesday showed. The daily increase marks a second consecutive day of new infections slightly rising. Earlier this week, the country eased some of its lockdown measures, allowing smaller shops to reopen and some school classes to resume.
-
Spain: Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez says his government plans to start winding down the country's lockdown measures in the second half of May. These restrictions will be eased slowly and gradually to ensure safety. Spain's state of emergency expected to be extended until 9th May.
-
Russia: Moscow will now check cars for digital travel permits, as the Russian capital tightens its lockdown measures. Anyone with cold-like symptoms will also have to stay home, as will their family members.
-
China: The city of Harbin is implementing strict measures from today, similar to those imposed on the central city of Wuhan during the early stages of the Covid-19 outbreak in January.
​
​Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.52 (GMT) Tuesday 21st April
​
​In Italy, the number of people officially identified as infected with coronavirus has fallen for the first time since the country's outbreak began.
​
In addition to those listed below we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
​
-
Hong Kong: Extension to social restrictions for another 14 days. A ban on public gatherings was originally supposed to end on 23rd April but will now remain in place until 7 May. Public gatherings of more than four people are banned while entertainment venues, bars, cinemas and gyms are closed and foreign arrivals at the airport have been suspended.
-
US: US President Donald Trump has said on Twitter that he will temporarily suspend immigration into the US.
-
Turkey: A four day curfew is to begin Wednesday night and run through until Monday morning.
-
Singapore: Extension of its partial lockdown until 1 June. The measures include school closures and almost everyone working from home. Social gatherings are banned
​
​Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.50 (GMT) Monday 20th April
​
Some positive news to begin the week: Several European countries including Germany, Poland, Norway, the Czech Republic and Albania are beginning to ease their lockdowns. France and Spain have both decided against a relaxation of measures at this stage.
​
In addition to those listed below we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
​
-
South Korea: Social distancing measures extended for another 15 days but offered some relief for churches and sporting fixtures.
-
Australia: Some beaches in Sydney have been reopened as officials are encouraged by a drop in new infections. The three biggest states - New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland recorded just seven new cases overnight, with Queensland recording no new cases for the first time in more than 80 days. But authorities have repeatedly urged caution. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has said current restrictions and the shut-down of businesses will be kept for at least another four weeks.
-
India: Some areas in non-virus hotspots are easing lockdown rules, starting from today. Agricultural businesses, public works programmes and banks will be allowed to re-open and some forms of transport carrying cargo will also be allowed to operate.; but this won’t apply to every state - some have already made it clear that they won’t ease because of rising infections. Along with restrictions on both international and domestic travel, schools, colleges, malls, cinema halls and most businesses - except those providing essential services - will remain shut.
-
New Zealand: New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has extended the country's lockdown for another week, it was due to end on Wednesday. As of next Tuesday, 28 April, New Zealand will move down one level of lockdown, she said. Businesses will be gradually allowed to send in staff to re-stock or clean, and schools can start getting ready to receive students again, but social distancing and stay-at-home guidelines remain.
-
Czech Republic: First of a five-stage relaxation of the lockdown begins today. Farmers’ markets, car dealerships and some other small businesses will be allowed to reopen for the first time since 12th March. The government will discuss easing travel restrictions on Monday.
-
Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka will ease its strict lockdown next week, authorities said on Saturday. The island nation has reported just under 250 positive cases and seven deaths.
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.58 (GMT) Friday 17th April
​
In addition to those listed below we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
​
-
Australia: Prime Minister Scott Morrison says rules will not be relaxed for at least four weeks, as a plan to prevent further outbreaks is put in place. He has defended plans to roll out a new Covid-19 contact-tracing app amid privacy concerns.
-
Japan: State of emergency extended from several hotspots to the entire country. It's short of a lockdown but will give the government more power to push people to stay at home
-
UK: Confirmed 3-week extension to lockdown measures.
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Turkey: Weekend long curfew from tonight.
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New Zealand: Government has indicated it may relax some of its restrictions next week.
-
Denmark: Some small businesses like hairdressers, beauty salons and driving schools to open on 20 April. The country will keep its borders shut though and other curbs on restaurants, bars and gyms remain in place, as does a ban on large public gatherings.
-
US: US President Donald Trump has unveiled new guidelines to governors about gradually re-opening state economies in three stages. The administration's 18-page guidance document details three phases to reopen state economies, with each phase lasting, at minimum, 14 days.
-
Germany: Germany's Health Minister Jens Spahn has said the country's coronavirus outbreak is "again under control" following lockdown measures. The country is contemplating easing some restrictions, with smaller shops expected to re-open as early as next week and some schools set to resume teaching at the start of May.
-
Bulgaria: Capital Sofia was sealed off at midnight on Thursday ahead of the Orthodox Easter holiday as people ignored restrictions on movement.
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Serbia: Curfew to come into effect for the duration of the Orthodox Easter weekend.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
UPDATE AS OF 14.47 (GMT) Thursday 16th April
​
-
UK: An announcement extending the lockdown period for a further three weeks is expected today.
-
Pakistan: Industries allowed to operate include construction, cement, fertiliser, e-commerce, packaging manufacturers and a handful of other smaller businesses, the government announced.
-
Germany: Schools will start to reopen from 4 May and shops sized under 800 square metres can return to business provided they implement strict safety measures.
-
Belgium: Belgian Government announced an extension of existing measures to 3 May.
-
UAE: New process introduced. A permit is now required for essential travel outdoors, applications for permits are only valid once every 3 days. For other purposes they can only be applied once every 5 days. Employees in services considered vital are exempt from the permit requirement as long as they are travelling to/from work.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
In addition to those listed below we are now reporting we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
​
-
Pakistan: Pakistan announced a two-week extension to its shutdown, but some industries will reopen in phases.
-
Thailand: Flight ban extended to 30 April.
-
Denmark: Nursery and primary schools reopening from Wednesday, as the country takes its first steps towards easing restrictions.
-
Australia: Schools reopening in some states, but some authorities have recommended that pupils do not attend.
-
India: Agriculture and farming activities will be allowed after 20 April. Public transport, flights and train services will continue to be suspended except for those carrying health and emergency workers. Schools and universities too will remain closed as well as all religious places of worship and sports facilities. Hospitals and health services will function as usual. The new rules - which will come into effect on Monday - are expected to ease the supply chain and alleviate the impact on the economy.
-
Germany: Chancellor Angela Merkel will today discuss with regional leaders whether to lift some of the measures in place to stop the spread. According to German media, the federal government in Berlin wants restrictions on movement to last until at least 3 May although some shops will be able to reopen under strict rules from 20 April.
-
EU: The European Union has announced its recommendations for member states to come out of lockdown measures, warning countries to be cautious. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the main pre-conditions were for states to have a significant decrease in infections, sufficient capacity in their health system and adequate monitoring and surveillance.
-
Malawi: Government has announced a 21-day lockdown, starting at midnight on 18 April.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.43 (GMT) Tuesday 14th April
In addition to those listed below, we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
​
-
Spain: Some restrictions eased and activity resuming in the construction and manufacturing sectors; however, shops, bars, restaurants, etc. to remain closed until at least 26th April, and likely to be extended for a further 15 days after this date.
-
France: The lockdown has been extended until 11th May
-
Italy: Lockdown extended until 3rd May. Certain shops are re-opening: booksellers, stationery shops and sellers of baby clothes. Computer production and paper manufacturing are also allowed to restart. But the amount of activity depends on the region, and strict hygiene rules remain in force. Lombardy region is keeping shops shut
-
Switzerland: Lockdown likely to be extended beyond the current 26th April end date
-
India: Lockdown extended until 3rd May
-
Germany: Current restriction due to end on 19th April, however, this is likely to be extended with a review due Wednesday 15th April.
-
UK: Currently in fourth week of lockdown, due to be reviewed later this week but it is unlikely there will be any change to the current restrictions.
-
Portugal: The border with Spain will be kept closed for another month, until 15th May. The border was closed a month ago to everything but goods and commuters.
-
Pakistan: International borders in the country will remain closed for two more weeks.
-
Japan: Hokkaido has re-declared a state of emergency; after the successful suppression of an initial outbreak, the relaxing of restrictions has led to a second wave.
-
Austria: Austria is beginning to lift its lockdown measures. Smaller shops of less than 400 sq m (4300 sq ft), as well as DIY and gardening stores, are scheduled to reopen today, but people are still urged to stay at home and in shops the wearing of masks is mandatory.
-
Poland: Health Minister Lukasz Szumowski said the country will start easing restrictions from 19 April.
-
Serbia: It is expected that a curfew from 5pm Thursday until 5am the following Tuesday will be announced to coincide with the Orthodox Easter weekend. The lockdown with curfews in place on all weekends is expected until the end of April.
-
Turkey: There will be a weekend long curfew from midnight Friday 17th April until midnight Sunday 19th.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.47 (GMT) Thursday 9th April
​
​In addition to the previous updates, the following impact on service availability as reported below:
​
-
South Korea: Reported its lowest number of new coronavirus cases in seven weeks. Only 39 new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed over the past 24 hours - 23 of which were related to overseas arrivals. Health officials are urging people to maintain social distancing measures until 19 April in the hope of reducing the number of cases even further.
-
India: 20 neighbourhoods in Dehli have been sealed to stop the spread of the virus. The government advises it will ensure that all "essential items" were delivered to these areas. Currently in the middle of a 21-day nation-wide lockdown - all public places, schools, colleges, most workplaces and transport services are shut- but reports suggest that it's unlikely to end on 15 April as infections continue to go up rapidly.
-
Italy: Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte says Italy could ease lockdown measures as early as the end of the month, although there was no mention of the extent or sectors which will be relaxed.
-
New Zealand: Stricter quarantine measures for all people arriving from overseas to be introduced, people will now go straight to a managed facility rather than being allowed home.
-
UK: Ministers will discuss the UK's lockdown today. A decision on extending the measures is not due yet but restrictions are expected to stay in place.
-
Portugal: A ban is now in place to stop people from leaving their local area without official documentation, with police vehicle checks to enforce the closure.
-
Spain: Parliament is debating an extension to the lockdown, but the prime minister has suggested the situation is beginning to be brought under control.
-
Bolivia: Montero is to be “cut off” for 12 days. No one will be allowed in or out of the city and residents will be confined to their homes except for one day set aside for essential food shopping.
-
Serbia: A weekend long curfew is expected from tomorrow.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.46 (GMT) Wednesday 8th April
​
​In addition to the previous updates, the following impact on service availability as reported below:
​
-
China: Wuhan has started to emerge from a two-month lockdown. Anyone who has a "green" code on a widely used smartphone health app is now allowed to leave, for the first time since 23 January.
-
Japan: Today is the first full day under a month-long state of emergency. This applies to those in capital Tokyo, port city Osaka and five other prefectures. The state of emergency means governors have the powers to close schools and businesses.
-
Philippines: The home quarantine order has been extended for roughly half of its population to the end of the month.
-
Hong Kong: The closure of bars and pubs along with the ban on public gatherings of more than four people is to be extended. The rules are now to be in place until 23 April.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.53 (GMT) Tuesday 7th April
​
​In addition to the previous updates, the following impact on service availability as reported below:
​
-
Hungary: The Bucharest partner has suspended all operations within this area and is unable to travel outside of this location. Service in the Oradea is limited to emergency cover only.
-
Singapore: New social restrictions begin today. All services deemed non-essential to close.
-
China: No new death recorded. Wuhan to begin lifting restrictions from tomorrow.
-
India: A group of ministers are set to meet today to discuss whether the lockdown should be extended, although at least seven states have already advised they will continue to have restrictions in place.
-
Japan: A state of emergency has been announced. The measures will begin at midnight and give local governors the power to ask people to stay at home and close businesses. Seven regions will be affected: Tokyo, Chiba, Kanagawa and Saitama, the western hub of Osaka and nearby Hyogo, as well as the southwestern region of Fukuoka.
-
Sri Lanka: With more than 150 cases, it looks as though officials are likely to extend the rigid lockdown currently in place across the country.
-
Israel: A general closure is being imposed ahead of the Jewish Passover holiday. No travel will be allowed between cities between Tuesday evening and Friday morning, and in Jewish-majority areas nobody should leave their home from Wednesday afternoon.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
​For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
​
UPDATE AS OF 15.26 (GMT) Monday 6th April
​
In addition to the previous updates, the following impact on service availability as reported below:
​
-
Japan: Parts of Japan are expected to go into a state of emergency in the coming days. It likely won't be for the entire country but for big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka only. The decision would give the government the power to implement stricter measures to ask people to stay at home or to close businesses.
-
Italy: The number of deaths reported on Sunday were the lowest in two weeks, and authorities there are confident that the peak of new cases has passed, although there has been no change to the restrictions in place.
-
Spain: The daily number of deaths has fallen for a fourth consecutive day. Officials believe the virus may finally be peaking, however there is no change to the restriction expected soon.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 15.02 (GMT) Friday 3rd April
​
In addition to the previous updates, the following impact on service availability as reported below:
​
-
Singapore: All schools and most workplaces will be closed for a month, starting next week. All businesses except food establishments, markets, supermarkets, clinics, hospitals, utilities, transport and key banking services will have to shut.
-
Russia: The “non-working” lockdown that was begun this week is to be extended.
-
China: Many cities have begun resuming work again, including some areas in the Hubei province.
-
Serbia: Full curfew to be brought into effect from 1pm (local) tomorrow until Monday morning.
​
The president of the EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has said that talks are under way on whether to extend EU border closures after Easter.
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.51 (GMT) Wednesday 1st April
​
In addition to the updates from yesterday, the following countries are also reporting service availability as below:
​
-
Portugal: Minimum break/fix services guaranteed, impact on service to be expected. No new project works accepted.
-
Netherlands: Potential for service available, dependent on access permissions to store and any local restrictions that may apply. Closure of schools, restaurants and bars until at least 28th April
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
​
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
​
UPDATE AS OF 14.58 (GMT) Tuesday 31st March
​
-
UK: Most work still possible dependent on access permissions.
-
Sweden: Some restrictions apply but generally work continues as normal
-
Spain: No works possible, only essential services open until 11th April, but may be extended
-
Turkey: Work still possible dependent on access permissions.
-
Finland: Work still possible dependent on access permissions. Some delays in deliveries.
-
North, Central and South Americas: Generally, works able to be completed normally.
-
Slovakia: Remote working only.
-
Germany: Service available in Germany except German islands. Out of hours calls are on a best effort basis. Some regions will be on best effort also.
-
France: Service extremely limited and dependent on level of necessity and required permissions being granted.
-
Japan: Borders restrictions to be extended to several more countries
​
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS AT: 15.02 (GMT) Monday 30th March
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Spain: Stricter measure are in place for the next two weeks, no one in any job deemed as non-essential should go to work.
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Australia: Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced strict new measures which limit movement. The new rules will restrict indoor and outdoor gatherings to two people.
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Argentina: The government will extend the mandatory nationwide quarantine period until the middle of April. The lockdown restricts non-essential workers from leaving their homes, apart from to buy food or medicines.
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Nigeria: A lockdown in the cities of Lagos and Abuja has been announced. The restrictions, which will start from 11pm local time (22:00 GMT) on Monday, will also apply to Ogun state, which borders Lagos. The lockdown will take effect for an initial period of 14 days. All businesses and offices would to close, food shops, hospitals and other essential service providers remain open.
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China has reported a drop in new virus cases for a fourth day in a row. There were 31 new cases reported on Monday - of which 30 were imported.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS AT: 14.55 (GMT) Friday 27th March
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Russia: All shops except pharmacies and grocery stores ordered to close from Saturday and next week has been designated a "non-working week". Russia has suspended all international flights. The only exception are special flights evacuating Russians from abroad. In Moscow, the mayor has ordered the closure of all bars, restaurants and city parks while international rail and sea routes to and from Russia are also closed and foreigners were stopped from entering the country a week ago.
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Spain: Some service still available, there appears to be differing levels of restrictions in different areas so confirmation will be required in the first instance.
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Hungary: Hungarian Prime Minister has introduced a nationwide lockdown for two weeks hoping to slow rates of infection. From 28 March, residents will only be allowed to leave their homes for work or to run essential errands.
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China: China will soon ban foreigners with valid Chinese visas and residence permits, in a drastic move to limit the number of imported virus cases in the country. The Foreign Ministry said the temporary ban would kick in on 28 March. Exemptions will be given to travelling diplomats and holders of "C" visas - foreigners who provide international transportation services.
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South Africa: South Africa has begun enforcing a three-week nationwide lockdown. All but essential movement is forbidden and both the army and the police are enforcing the measures. Food shops will be allowed to stay open.
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Australia: All Australians returning to the nation will be quarantined for 14 day
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS AT: 14.42 (GMT) Tuesday 24th March
Last night the Prime Minister of the UK tightened restrictions on shops and movements in a partial lockdown. All shops selling items deemed as non-essential are to close, these include clothing stores, electronic/gaming stores, book shops etc. Grocery, hardware and pharmacy stores are to remain open as are banks.
Gathering of more than two people are banned.
Restrictions on movements have also been increased, stating that people will only be allowed to leave their homes to:
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Shop for basic necessities as infrequently as possible
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Exercise in some form once per day
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For medical needs or to provide care for a vulnerable individual
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Travelling to and from work but only where absolutely necessary.
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These measures will be reviewed after three weeks. The FCO has also advised all British nationals to return home as soon as possible.
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In other areas:
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China: 78 new cases announced but 74 of those were from out of country continuing the trend of a reduction in domestic cases. The lockdown in Wuhan, the Chinese city where the global coronavirus outbreak began, will be partially lifted on 8 April. Travel restrictions in the rest of Hubei province will be lifted from midnight on Tuesday - for residents who are healthy
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Italy: The rate of increase in new cases and deaths has begun to fall with some health officials saying that this could mark the start of “flattening the curve”.
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Colombia: Mass “mandatory preventive isolation” is due to start on Wednesday, meaning people will have to stay in their homes.
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Pakistan: Sweeping restrictions are in place although the government stopped short of imposing a nationwide lockdown. However, several provinces have announced them independently. The army is being brought in to help enforce the restrictions.
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Bangladesh: The government has announced that all public and private offices will be shut from 26 March.
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Myanmar: The first two cases have been confirmed.
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Thailand: A month-long state of emergency will start on Thursday which will include curfews and checkpoints
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Sri Lanka : A nationwide curfew that was meant to end on Monday evening was extended until Thursday as the number of cases went up to 100.
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Jordan: Indefinitely extended a round-the-clock curfew on Monday.
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Israel: Expected to announce a curfew and tough penalties for violations, with people only allowed out to get food, medicine and other essential items.
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Japan: The Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics have been postponed.
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS AT: 14.20 (GMT) Monday 23rd March
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Restrictions continue to be imposed across the world with most countries now imposing strict movement controls and the closure of many non-essential stores or services. Area which had seen little impact are beginning to report a growth in infection rates. Some countries where new domestic infection rates have begun to subside are seeing an second wave as people return from overseas.
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Spain: The situation continues to escalate. Madrid is severely affected.
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China: There have been no reports of new domestic infections for three days, but the number of infections from people going back into country continue.
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UK: Pubs, clubs and restaurants were instructed to close. Schools are closed from today expect for the children of those deemed key workers. Public transport is being scaled back. Several high street outlets have taken the decision to close until further notice. The government has recommended that those deemed to be at high risk should isolate for 12 weeks.
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France: The national parliament has passed a law declaring a two-month health emergency
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India: A lockdown in effect in Delhi from this morning. All public transport has stopped running and all borders with neighbouring states are closed. Only those services deemed essential are continuing. All international and domestic flights are grounded. Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata have been placed under travel, work and movement restrictions until March 31
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Germany: A ban imposed on all gatherings of more than two people who aren't family.
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Italy: All businesses deemed non-essential to close. Travel ban on leaving towns for other areas.
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Saudi Arabia: A three-week curfew from 19.00 to 06.00 to begin tonight
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Dubai: Dubai international airport will essentially shut down from 25th March.
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Australia: A nationwide shut down across the country, with pubs, clubs, gyms, cinemas and places of worship shutting down.
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New Zealand: The government has lifted the country's coronavirus alert status to level 3 - and is set to rise to level 4 which means all non-essential services will have to close. The changes will come into effect in around 48 hours meaning schools will close and people will be instructed to stay at home.
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Morocco: Military vehicles were into the streets to order people to stay at home. Police are also enforcing the message. A public health state of emergency went into effect on Friday.
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Singapore: While managing to control an initial wave of infections there is now a second wave from returning citizens. The government has now imposed strict measures such as banning all tourists and even some work pass holders from returning.
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Pakistan: Authorities have banned all international flights and the province of Sindh, which has reported the highest number of cases, is under lockdown.
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Sri Lanka: The island has seen 77 confirmed cases, prompting a temporary curfew.
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Bangladesh: 25 people have tested positive for Covid-19 and authorities have banned all international flights and shut down schools and colleges.
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Indonesia: Shut down measures began in Jakarta on Monday. The city has declared a state of emergency, announcing that public entertainment spaces like bars, cinemas and restaurants would be shut on Monday until 2 April. Public transport operators are also limiting their services - with operating hours cut down in a bid to reduce passenger numbers.
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Hong Kong: Hong Kong will ban all tourists and transit travellers to the city for 14 days from Wednesday. All bars, pubs and entertainment venues will also be asked to shut. Hong Kong is already quarantining all people arriving from abroad, and mainland China, for 14 days.
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Ecuador: A curfew was introduced at the weekend, keeping people off the streets from 19:00 to 05:00 local time
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Brazil: São Paulo Governor João Doria imposed a 15-day shutdown, though the national government is in disagreement as to the necessity of such measure.
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El Salvador: Introduced a strict new curfew and is detaining those who don’t comply.
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Mexico: in Mexico City gyms, bars, theatres and more, are closing from Monday until 19 April. Shopping malls and restaurants will stay open, and gatherings are being limited to 50 people.
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Croatia: As well as restrictions due to Covid-19, the capital Zagreb was hit by a 5.3-magnitude quake, the largest to affect the city in 140 years.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS AT 15.10 (GMT) 18th March 2020
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Restrictions continue to be imposed across Europe with many countries now imposing strict movement controls and the closure of many non-essential stores or services.
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Belgium: The country is the latest to go into a state of lockdown from 11.00am (GMT) today. Some stores and services remain open but under strict conditions.
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USA: The US has closed its border with Canada to non-essential traffic, but goods should not be affected. Partners are not reporting an interruption to service yet.
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UK: Scotland and Wales have announced the imminent closure of schools, with England expected to announce the same later today. It’s is not yet known what affect this may have on service.
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Australia: The government has announced two new key restrictions on travel and social settings. "Non-essential" gatherings of more than 100 people are now banned, while Australians have also been told to not travel overseas. We are not reporting an interruption to service
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Philippines: The Philippines have reversed a ban on inbound foreign travellers, but they will have to undergo strict testing and isolation protocols.
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Ukraine: Most public transport in Ukraine is shutting down, and only buses and trams are allowed in cities.
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An EU travel ban for non-EU citizens has come into force.
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The pandemic does not appear to have affected Africa on the same scale as Asia or Europe, but new cases continue to emerge, and countries are beginning to impose travel restrictions.
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Eight countries in the South East Asia region have confirmed cases, with the World Health Organisation advising harsher restrictions may need to be imposed. The closure of the border between Malaysia and Singapore is influencing the availability of workers who cross into Singapore daily.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
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For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS AT 14.45 (GMT) 17th March 2020
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Multiple countries are now introducing severe restrictions on movement, including most non-essential shops and services closing.
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France: From today there will be a nationwide lockdown and infractions could be punished.
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Germany: Most non-grocery shops and venues have been ordered to shut.
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Switzerland: The country has declared a national emergency.
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Turkey: Restrictions on access have been extended to UK nationals.
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Russia: A ban on the entry of foreign nationals and stateless people from March 18 to May 1 in response to the coronavirus outbreak will be introduced.
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India: A ban on entry for UK and EU nationals.
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USA: A continued increase in the severity of restrictions across the country, although many are operating as normal.
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Serbia: The governments has declared a national emergency adding that they will formulate the “harshest measures” soon.
The FCO has advised against all but essential travel outside of the UK for 30 days, although this will be under continuous review. While this does not stop travel the levels of disruption this will cause can not be known. The Prime Minister advised yesterday that those in “at risk” groups be prepared to severely restrict movements for 12 weeks and households where there has been a suspected case isolate for 14 days.
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While recommendations were made yesterday to avoid public areas such as pubs, restaurants, cinemas, etc. by the UK government this was not a lockdown, so while shops may remain open, staffing and company policy may determine otherwise.
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It is expected the EU will suspend all travel from external (ie. non-Schengen) countries and ban all non-essential travel in the Schengen free-travel zone.
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Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response.
For travel advice: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR1GatZZAjbcj9f2GlLgNezRG--Z21JMz8ORsqRMf5ELvRACvEC5GQOe_4c and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS AT 15.01 (GMT) 16th March 2020
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In addition to those listed below we are now reporting we are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
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Germany: Certain areas becoming restricted access only. Schools closing reducing available resources. There is the potential for works to be completed dependant on location and type required, however it should be noted that these would need be completed on a Best Effort basis. The country has closed its borders and the Bavarian region has been declared a disaster zone.
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Spain: The country is now in a full shutdown, no works possible. This is expected to continue until March 27th
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France: Further information is expected later tonight with the potential of a lockdown, similar to that in Spain. Works are continuing, where access and resource permit, but this may change at short notice.
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Portugal: Any existing requests will be completed on a Best Effort basis; however no new requests will be fulfilled, and all activities suspended pending further advice.
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Lithuania: A full quarantine will be in effect from 16th until 30th March
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Canada: Reports from Toronto that they are on lockdown - office workers to stay home for 2-weeks; public spaces (libraries, etc), restaurants, bars told to cut capacity by 50%
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Several more countries have restricted access to foreign nationals from affected areas and more still have closed their borders to all foreign nationals. In some of these cases the FCO have advised against all or all but essential travel.
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Europe is now designated the epicentre of the pandemic and the situation is evolving at a rapid pace, but the virus is being to have an impact in other continents as well.
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The USA have enacted travel restrictions from multiple affected countries including the UK and a state of emergency has been declared. It is still to be seen the exact impact this will have on service but currently works are unimpeded.
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For several countries in South America the FCO advised as all but essential travel, including Argentina and Peru.
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In Qatar, from the evening of 18 March for a period of at least 14 days (which may be subject to further extension), no international passengers – including those with a residence permit - will be allowed to enter. Transit passengers going on to another destination will still be able to transfer through, and most flights continue to run.
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Oman has also restricted access to all but Omani and GCC residents.
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South Africa is introducing screening policies for all foreign nationals with the possibility of a 14-day self-isolation requirement. All but essential travel is not advised for the entirety of Kenya.
Australia also will impose a 14-day self-isolation period for all foreign nationals entering the country with the exception of Pacific Islanders.
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The situation in China appears to be continuing to improve, however severe restrictions are still in place.
Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response and country specific information here https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
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UPDATE AS AT: 15:45 (GMT) 13th March 2020
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We are currently reporting issues in the following countries:
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Italy: Widespread travel restriction with severe impact on works.
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Spain: Recent change to FCO travel advice; “The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) against all but essential travel to the regions that the Spanish Ministry of Health have designated as areas of community transmission of coronavirus, as follows: Madrid and La Rioja, and the municipalities of La Bastida and Vitoria (both in the Basque Country) and Miranda de Ebro (in Castilla y León)” It is expected that there will be a severe disruption to service as the shops begin to shut down.
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Poland: All works currently cancelled for the next two weeks after Government advice. It is expected that the situation in Poland will escalate in the coming days.
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Netherlands and Belgium: Although we are not currently reporting any disruption the situation is fluid. Works can be undertaken but on a Best Effort understanding.
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Denmark: All public works has been shutdown, most offices closed. Work can be undertaken but all necessary precautions must be taken.
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Sweden: Low level impact resulting in administrative delays. Some sites closed.
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Other travel restrictions apply as several countries have limited the access of foreign nationals and others have close their borders entirely. Czech Republic and Slovakia close borders to foreigners except those with residence permits and Malta announces mandatory quarantines for new arrivals.
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For further information: https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response
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UPDATE AS AT: 16.15 (GMT) 12th March 2020
Since our statement (read below) on Tuesday there have been several significant developments in the global response to Covid-19, although this list is likely to be superseded and subject to amendment:
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Flights to USA suspended from most European countries;
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Italy is on national lockdown;
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Denmark is on national lockdown;
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Slovakia has closed national borders to non-residents;
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30% reduction in flights to/from South America;
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Netherlands ban on gatherings over 100 people;
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Republic of Ireland schools closed;
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Other Country Statues as of 12th March 2020
China – Restrictions within Wuhan province, inter-city travel difficult however resource already located in region available, Logistical issues impacting transport of hardware.
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With the growing concern over the spread of Covid-19 (Coronavirus) a slow down in available travelling resource is to be expected, along with the resultant impact on service levels and project completion. Currently, Covid-19 has been identified in 73 countries with over 110,000 confirmed cases worldwide.
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
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In this environment everyone is looking for ways to mitigate the risks, not just of becoming infected themselves, but of spreading that infection to others. Part of this mitigation has been restriction of movement in areas that have been affected by an outbreak, meaning a lack of resource may be available in these areas for service requests. While these areas are currently limited, there is the potential for this to increase.
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At YouCall-IT.com we are committed to working directly with local resources, we have the ability to meet requirement where others are unable.
We work across multiple regions all over the world– this has always been our business model to provide work as close to the client site from the engineer home base as possible, you log a service call in Milan, it will be an engineer from Milan who carries out the work; major deployment of new hardware in Tokyo – locally-based engineers will be making those connections.
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We work with some of the very best service providers and suppliers in their respective countries. If you’re looking for IT support in these difficult circumstances then let us help.
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On this page, you will receive regular updates including current engineer resource levels and availability.
To monitor the progress across the globe of COVID-19 you can view this interactive map produced by John Hopkins CSSE - by clicking HERE
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Italy – Severe restrictions are now in place across Italy
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On 9th March Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced an increase in travel restrictions across Italy.
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Currently we are reporting no service available in the following locations:
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Venezia
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Bergamo
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Cremona
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Lodi
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Other regions are not reporting a disruption at the moment but this is subject to change.
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The measures will last until 3 April.
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Please see current works status on the youcall-it.com platform for the most up to date information.
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Lockdown information (source CNN)
https://edition.cnn.com/2020/03/08/europe/italy-coronavirus-lockdown-europe-intl/index.html
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The UK Foreign Office has also advised against all but essential travel to a number of regions in the country
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy
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