Irish tourists planning to travel to China in the days and weeks ahead should be able to cancel their plans at no cost as a result of the latest advisory from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). It updated its travel advice on Wednesday and said Irish citizens should avoid non-essential travel to China as the number of coronavirus deaths and confirmed cases of the illness continues to rise sharply. The ITAA said Irish travellers in affected areas should “stay indoors where possible and to avoid large gatherings”. The president of the ITAA John Spollen said that while airports in China were still operating “there are increased security measures in place. If you are affected, you should contact your tour operator or travel agent.”The ITAA also said that travellers currently in China who wish to return early should contact their travel provider to discuss their options while intending travellers should maintain contact with their travel adviser and tour operator for travel updates.

Source: The Irish Times January 29, 2020 17:15 UTC