The European Commission HSC (Health Security Committee) recommendations:
- Travellers should exercise caution if travelling to any regions globally that are experiencing high rates of SARS-CoV-2 transmission as this could increase the risk of infection, and additionally could make it harder to access healthcare services abroad should the need arise. Travellers should check that their health insurance provides full coverage in the destination country.
- Prior to departure, all travellers should ensure that they have received the full course of COVID-19 vaccines, including booster doses, and are generally up to date with all vaccines according to their national vaccination programmes.
- During travel, medical face masks are among the most efficient means to prevent the transmission of SARS-COV-2. As such, the wearing of masks should be considered in crowded indoor and outdoor settings, including during air travel.
- Vulnerable passengers should continue to wear a face mask regardless of the rules, ideally an FFP2/N95/KN95 type mask which offers a higher level of protection than a standard surgical mask. People with respiratory symptoms (coughing or sneezing) are strongly recommended to wear a medical face mask irrespective of the requirements on that particular flight.
Passengers arriving in the EU from China
- All travellers should be aware of entry requirements at transit and destination airports, such as whether a COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination status is required.
- Due to the continuing high prevalence of respiratory viruses in the EU/EEA, including RS, SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, health systems in some countries are currently under severe pressure and this may affect access to treatment for both EU/EEA citizens and travellers.
