Jordan: Quarantine and screening measures implemented nationwide February 2

Event

As of Sunday, February 2, the Jordanian government has been implementing quarantine and screening measures for travelers entering the country to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV). All travelers arriving via Jordanian airports and land borders will be screened for the virus. Those displaying symptoms of the virus and have a travel record that may indicate possible exposure will be immediately moved to Al Bashir hospital in Amman for a 14-day quarantine.

To date, no coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Jordan.

Further spread of the disease is expected in the coming weeks worldwide.

Context

The first case of 2019-nCoV was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in 25 countries and territories worldwide. Virus screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On January 30, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the ongoing novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak is a "public health emergency of international concern."

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and labored breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Individuals traveling to Jordan are advised to monitor the situation, respect government regulations, and contact their nearest embassy for further details. Individuals are also advised to take precautionary measures to reduce their risk of contracting the virus:

• Avoid all contact with animals (dead or alive); avoid eating animal products that are undercooked; avoid all markets where animals are sold
• Avoid all close contact with people displaying symptoms of the disease (e.g. difficulties breathing)
• Frequently wash hands and wear a face mask
• Adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments
• Travelers returning from China developing symptoms of pneumonia are advised to call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to avoid spreading the disease.