Dear TAs,

There are currently seven countries who have declared that they are free of Coronavirus and have never had any reported cases.  This information is self-reported and may not be accurate when compared to reporting from official sources, such as the World Health Organization and the CDC. 

However, it is interesting to note what precautions were taken to prevent the widespread infection that has affected most of the world.

North Korea

North Korea was the first country to close its borders. The country closed its borders in January 2020 and haven’t re-opened since. It implemented strict measures for those coming into the country (foreigners and nationals) including a one- or two-month quarantine.  While the North Korean authorities report zero cases, one should consider the likelihood of China’s nearest neighbor being completely free of the virus.

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is a country in Central Asia bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. All the bordering countries have reports of coronavirus infections. Most of the land borders have been closed, and in early February 2020 Turkmenistan cancelled many flights, and all flights to and from China. It has been noted that the official statement of zero cases may not accurately reflect the number of infections and the country was advised by the WHO to act as if there were infections within the country and take necessary precautions.  

Kiribati, Tonga, Palau, Tuvalu, Nauru – Oceania

As of April 5, 2021, these countries have no reported cases of COVID-19.

There have been no cases in Kiribati, but a state of public emergency has been declared. Tonga has been strict with travel rules since February 2020. Since Fiji’s first reported case of coronavirus, Tonga closed its borders to foreigners and only allowed flights for foreigners to travel back to their own countries.  Tonga began repatriation flights in mid-July to get Tongans back from Fiji. The flight was limited to less than 60 people, all of whom were under strict quarantine at the same hotel.

As one of the least visited countries in the world, Tuvalu sees fewer than 200 tourists per year. This has prevented an outbreak in this country.  Nauru is a country so small that you can walk around it in one day.  Along with Tuvalu, it holds the record for being one of the least visited countries in the world.

The above information is proof that travel agents should do research and find accurate information about the number of Covid cases in all destinations, and also, the limitations and restrictions imposed by certain countries for travelers.

Cheers!

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