India issues travel advisory to its citizens visiting China

The Government of India has issued a travel advisory directing Indian citizens to follow certain precautionary measures if they are visiting China. The advisory has been circulated keeping in view the outbreak of a viral infection which has been causing respiratory problems.
The advisory has been given by the Union health ministry stating that the mode of transmission of the new coronavirus is not clear yet. Also those visiting China have been asked to refrain from visiting farms, live animal markets or animal slaughterhouses. Furthermore, travellers from India have been asked to avoid raw or under-cooked meat.


In addition, the advisory asks citizens to stay away from close contact with unwell people or those showing symptoms of illness. Indians visiting China should wear masks in case they show symptoms of respiratory issues. People should also maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands with soap and cover their mouth while sneezing or coughing.
As stated on January 11, about 41 confirmed cases of infection with the novel coronavirus have been reported so far, of which one person has died.

Reportedly, only travel-related illnesses have been reported in Thailand and Japan. The symptoms of those affected are fever and difficulty in breathing.

However, the mode of transmission of the virus is not clear.