Denmark: Authorities extend flight suspension from the UK until Dec. 25 due to new COVID-19 strain /update 25

Event

Authorities in Denmark are extending the suspension of all flights from the UK until at least Dec. 25 in response to a new strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) discovered primarily in the southeast of England. Starting Dec. 25, authorities will allow entry for all Danish citizens or permanent residents arriving from the UK without restrictions; non-residents will be barred from entry except in cases of family emergencies and for the transportation of goods. Foreign travelers arriving for family emergencies will have to present a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.

Aside from the aforementioned ban on travelers from the UK, international travel restrictions on most foreign nationals remain in effect. Authorities categorize countries as "open," "quarantine," or "high-risk" based on infection rates and other health indicators in those countries. Travelers from open countries are permitted entry to Denmark for any reason and are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test result. Travelers from quarantine countries or regions may travel into Denmark if they have a recognizable purpose for the trip. Travelers from banned countries and regions are only permitted entry for specifically defined purposes, such as work, study, or family reasons, and must present a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.

As of Dec. 23, the only locations designated as open are the counties of Agder, Vestland, Troms og Finnmark, More og Romsdal, Nordland, Rogaland, and Trondelag in Norway, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand. Residents of the border regions, including Norway, Schleswig-Holstein in Germany, and Scania, Halland, and Blekinge in Sweden, do not need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test to be permitted entry, provided they have a specifically defined purpose for travel.

Authorities in 38 municipalities have tightened domestic COVID-19 restrictions to counter an increase in case numbers. The measures will mean the closure of all leisure centers, swimming pools, cinemas, museums, and other entertainment venues until at least Jan. 3; restaurants will be limited to takeaway services only. Secondary school pupils and university students will transfer to remote learning. The restrictions will apply to Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, and a number of municipalities on Zealand.

Existing nationwide restrictions have been extended until at least the end of February, including:

Public and private gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people, indoors or outdoors.
Funerals may not exceed 50 attendees.
Protective facemasks are mandatory in all indoor public spaces, and domestic social-distancing mandates remain in force.
Cafes, bars, and restaurants must close at 2200 nationwide except for carryout service; patrons must wear facemasks when not seated.
Alcohol sales must cease at 2200 daily.
Individuals are encouraged to work from home where possible. Industry-specific operating requirements are also still in place for certain sectors.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.