#15,694
Even though Denmark has already identified at least 86 cases of the COVID B.1.1.7 variant, and has warned it could become the dominant strain in their country in a matter of weeks, there are other COVID variant viruses of concern - particularly those carrying the E484K mutation - circulating elsewhere in the world.
In an attempt to reduce the risk of importing other COVID variants, or adding to the number of B.1.1.7 variants already in-country, today Denmark's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a `Red' travel warning to the entire world.
This comes on the same day that the city of London declared a `Major Incident' over their sharp rise in COVID cases, and American media sources reported on concerns over a possible `American Variant', which may be partially responsible for the recent rise in cases in the the United States.
All of which suggests that COVID hasn't played its last hand by a long shot.
This statement from Denmark's Udenrigsministeriet.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against all travel to the whole world
08.01.2021 18:04
To minimize the risk of corona mutations in Denmark, the government has decided to tighten travel guidelines for the whole world.
From Friday 8 January until 17 January, the travel guide for the whole world will be sharpened from being 'orange' (all unnecessary travel is not recommended) to 'red'. That is, all travel to the whole world is discouraged. The tightening takes place as part of the infection management with coronavirus / COVID-19 in Denmark, where restriction of travel activity is an important element in the effort to control the spread of infection, while mutations of coronavirus occur in several countries.
"Right now we are seeing new mutations of COVID-19 abroad. This is a very serious development and poses a significant risk that the social center in Denmark may escalate markedly. The safety and security of Danes is the government's first priority. We can see the finish line. The vaccine is here. With each passing day, more and more Danes are being vaccinated. We must not stumble on the run-up stretch. Not least in the light of the new mutations, we will have to - all of us - make an extra effort. And today's package of travel initiatives is an expression of that, "says Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod.
The Danes who are already traveling do not have to travel home immediately. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends that in case of doubt, you contact your airline or travel company to investigate the return possibilities.
There are still scheduled flights to Denmark via several transit airports, but the situation may change quickly, as has previously happened during the pandemic. In addition, it is important that the travel advice and health recommendations given below are followed.
The tightening of travel guides means that business travel, which is otherwise considered necessary travel, is also discouraged. However, certain exceptions apply. For example, in connection with the delivery of goods and services in and out of the country. See specific exceptions at www.coronasmitte.dk.
Travel advice for Danes abroad:Health recommendation on return
- You should contact your travel company and insurance company if you have questions about how to get home.
- If departure does not prove possible, you can contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Global Security Center around the clock (bbb@um.dk or +4533921112)
- You should check the local restrictions in the country you are in.
- You are encouraged to sign up for the Danskerlisten via danskerlisten.um.dk or via the Travel Ready app. The Danish list is the fastest way for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to send you information about the country you are in.
- The change does not mean that the Danish borders will be closed to Danes or others living in Denmark who are on their way home from holiday or other stay abroad.
- All entrants are encouraged to take a quick test immediately when they arrive in Denmark by making use of the free quick test facilities that are made available upon entry. Children up to the age of 12 are exempt from this invitation.
- The call for a quick test is a supplement to the current infection prevention recommendations that Danish and foreign entrants are encouraged to self-isolate for 10 days, which can be interrupted by a negative response to a PCR test, which is performed no earlier than the fourth day after entry.
- Home transport: Travelers must follow the authorities' recommendations regarding infection prevention behavior. Ie. to use bandages in public transport and follow recommendations on distance and hygiene, etc.
