Wolf Administration updates travel guidance

“If you arrived in Pennsylvania from China or Iran anytime during the outbreaks there, you will be notified by the department to stay home and practice social distancing for 14 days after travel,” said Dr. Levine.

“If you have returned from travel in Italy or South Korea within the past 14 days, we ask that you call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) to let the department know about your travel, and then stay home and practice social distancing for 14 days after travel.”

Individuals returning from China, Iran, Italy and South Korea should self-monitor your health for symptoms like fever, cough, or trouble breathing. If you become sick, call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) before going to the doctor’s office or emergency room.

“While we caution Pennsylvanians to avoid all unnecessary travel to and from countries with a CDC level 3 travel advisory at this time, we understand that it cannot all be avoided,” Dr. Levine said. “In that case, we are urging Pennsylvanians to be aware of and follow these guidelines to protect their health and others around them.” 

Travelers who are self-monitoring their health and practicing social distancing should:

• Take your temperature with a thermometer twice day and monitor for fever. Also watch for cough or trouble breathing.
• Stay home and avoid contact with others. Do not go to work or school for this 14-day period.
• If you must leave your home, do not take public transportation, taxis or ride-shares during the time you are practicing social distancing.
• If you must leave your home, avoid crowded places (such as shopping centers and movie theaters) and limit your activities in public.
• Keep your distance from others (about 6 feet or 2 meters).

If you need to seek medical care for other reasons call ahead to 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) and your doctor and tell them about your recent travel to an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19. If you need support during this 14-day period of self-monitoring and social distancing, you can also call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258). When 14 days have passed since your departure date, you can return to your regular routine.

Pennsylvanians are encouraged to help stop the spread of viruses by:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Clean surfaces frequently, including countertops, light switches, cell phones and other frequently touched items.
• If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others.

For information and updates related to novel coronavirus, visit the Department of Health website at www.health.pa.gov or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.