Denmark: Authorities to require all passengers arriving by air to present a negative COVID-19 test before departure Jan. 9-Jan 17 /update 27

Denmark to tighten international entry restrictions from 1700 Jan. 9 through Jan. 17 in response to new COVID-19 strain.

Event

Authorities in Denmark are tightening international entry restrictions as part of ongoing efforts to limit the spread of a new strain of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). From 1700 Jan. 9 through at least Jan.17, all arriving international air passengers above the age of 12 must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than 24 hours before boarding their flights. In addition, all passengers must have a justifiable purpose for their travel, such as work, study, or family reasons. Flights from Greenland and the Faroe Islands are exempt from the requirement. Furthermore, authorities are recommending against all travel abroad Jan. 8-17.

Tighter entry restrictions remain in effect for travelers from the UK and South Africa as of Jan. 8. Authorities have barred travelers from the UK, and South Africa who are not Danish citizens or permanent residents from entering Denmark until Jan. 17, except for urgent family purposes. The move is directly related to concerns over the new COVID-19 virus mutation.

Existing domestic restrictions will stay in force until at least the end of February, including the following:

Public gatherings are limited to five people; authorities strongly advise against all private gatherings of more than five people.
Funerals may not exceed 50 attendees.
Protective facemasks are mandatory in all indoor public spaces, and domestic social distancing mandates remain in force.
Bars, clubs, cafes, restaurants, libraries, museums, theatres and concert venues, as well as gyms and fitness centers are closed.
Alcohol sales must cease at 2200 daily.
Individuals are encouraged to work from home where possible. Industry-specific operating requirements are also still in place for certain sectors.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.