Coronavirus (COVID-19) is on a rampage! Travelers need travel tips before this virus goes berserk. So far, there is no sign of go-slow. As of *17th of March 2020, more than 200,000 people have been infected across the globe. During this same time, it has killed more than 7,000 people. That is a lot. It is concerning but wait a minute! Let’s take a deep breath first and say a prayer for all those who may have lost loved ones or affected one way or the other. May they find strength!
In this article, I will be looking at the following
| Table of Contents |
| In The Beginning |
| The Threat of Coronavirus And Our Hope |
| Coronavirus: Lagos VS Johannesburg |
| 9 Coronavirus Travel Tips |
| Recap |
In The Beginning
Last year, the coronavirus pandemic started in China. It has now found its way into 80 countries and counting! This health crisis is now clearly disrupting the way we live. As a result of this, governments around the world are racing to contain it before it cause more havoc. People are getting sick across the world and global leading organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) are releasing statements to help us understand the epidemic and how to prevent, manage and resolve it. One of the clarity the WHO has given is that we can avoid been infected by the virus if we follow good hygienic practices regularly. We have also learnt that Covid-19 is the name of the sickness caused by coronavirus.
The Threat of Coronavirus And Our Hope
We have been through alot as a human race. Actually, several death-dealing respiratory virus threats have almost eliminated us. But we have survived through it all. And we will overcome this one too. With coronavirus (Covid-19), the biggest threat we face is its almost uncontrollable wild fire run across the globe. It has created an urgent need to inform travelers about health and safety tips. But before we get down to that, let’s see what the stats are saying about coronavirus from Lagos State to the City of Johannesburg.
Coronavirus: Lagos VS Johannesburg
Nigeria and South Africa’s coronavirus (Covid-19) patient zero brought the virus from Italy. Since the detection, both countries have been doing their possible best to slow down its spread. As at today, South Africa has conducted more than 2900 tests. 116 confirmed cases of people have tested positive to the novel coronavirus in South Africa. In Nigeria, over 60 people who have come into contact with the Italian patient zero and other detected cases are now in isolation. So far, 3 people have tested positive to the virus in Nigeria. Out of the 3 cases, 2 has been successfully treated and discharged. But the war against the virus continues.
South Africa and Nigeria are dealing with a big blow. No doubt about it. The virus is hitting socio-economic activities in both countries. In South Africa, schools are now closed. Most of its borders are also locked and gatherings more than 100 people are strictly prohibited. Travel restrictions to and from countries such as the US, UK, Italy, China, Germany, etc are now in force. But what does this mean for travelers who shuttle Lagos and Johannesburg? How do you keep yourself safe? And where do you get up to date information about this pandemic? We have addressed all of these questions. And also listed below are safety tips to bear in mind while traveling from Johannesburg to Lagos or vice versa. These travel tips are based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization, the Nigerian Centre For Disease Control (NCDC) and the South African Department of Health.
9 Coronavirus (Covid-19) Travel Tips
- Unnecessary travel should be suspended especially to affected countries.
- If you are sick, it is advisable to avoid traveling. This is especially important for elderly travelers. People with underlying medical conditions and or chronic health problems must take greater precautions.
- Self-isolate for 2 weeks upon returning from international travel. This is one of the most important travel tips. Please take this seriously.
- Maintain a safe distance of about 2 meters (5 feet) from all persons and particularly anyone exhibiting flu symptoms.
- Practice good personal hygiene. Wash your hands frequently with soap for at least 20 seconds if soiled. Use alcohol based hand sanitizer if hands are not soiled. Clean and disinfect frequently-used objects and surfaces. Proper cough etiquette is also encouraged. Antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizers are permitted in the aircraft if you plan to travel with them.
- Wear face masks to prevent spreading and or contracting the virus.
- The free change of booking for flight tickets on South African Airways (SAA) due to Covid-19 does not apply to Lagos or Johannesburg bound passengers.
- You will find updates on the latest developments on Covid-19 in Nigeria on ncdc.gov.ng. Toll free number for NCDC is 0800 970 000 0010. SMS on 08099555577 and WhatsApp is 07087110839. These lines are available 24 hours a day from Monday to Sunday.
- SACoronavirus.co.za provides online resource and news portal for coronavirus in South Africa. Emergency hotline in South Africa is 0800 029 999 while the WhatsApp support line is 0600 123456.
Recap
The whole world is going through a difficult health crisis without a doubt. Nigeria and South Africa are no exception. In fact, we are already feeling the bites from the virus!
I hope that the health and safety tips shared above will help to ensure that you stay safe.
Meanwhile, how are you coping during these crazy times? Please share your Covid-19 survival tips with us in the comment section.
*Figures in this article reflect estimates as at the 17th of March, 2020.
