Is it safe to travel to the USA? What you need to know during the coronavirus outbreak

The US has recorded over 1,000 positive cases of Covid-19, with New York, California and Washington among the worst hit.

The outbreak of the novel strain of coronavirus has seen a handful of states declare emergencies, while Democratic presidential candidates have both been forced to cancel campaign rallies.

The New York City suburb of New Rochelle has been sealed off, placed under a 1 mile containment zone after it recorded a cluster of cases. The National Guard have been sent into the neighbourhood to supply food to residents and scrub public places in an attempt to contain the disease.

In California, the Coachella Festival, which was due to take place in April, was postponed until October due to the outbreak. The state has recorded three deaths.

Washington state has arguably been the worst hit area in the States, recording 24 deaths, most of which have been linked to a care home on the outskirts of Seattle.

Thirty deaths have been recorded in the United States in total.

The outbreak will be of concern to the thousands of UK tourists who visit the United States every year.

What's the 'official' travel advice?

“There is an ongoing outbreak of coronavirus,” say the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). “The virus originated in Wuhan City, Hubei Province but cases have been confirmed in other parts of China and in some countries, including the United States.

“You should comply with any additional screening measures put in place by the local authorities. Given the fast changing situation, you should check the latest entry requirements for your destination and keep in touch with your airline, cruise line or tour operator before you travel.

“With effect from 2 February, the US Government will not permit entry to the USA of any foreign nationals who have visited China 14 days or less prior to their travel to the USA.

“More information for travellers to the USA can be found on the US Centre for Disease Control (CDC) website, including information about cases in the United States.

“Further advice is available from Public Health England, and the TravelHealthPro website.”

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?