Last updated: 4th March 2020

Coronavirus Japan and Travel Insurance

Due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, Japanese authorities have implemented enhanced quarantine procedures at airports and ports to limit the spread of the virus. There are currently many confirmed cases of coronavirus in Japan.

As preventative measures against the further spread of coronavirus in Japan, the Immigration Services Agency of Japan has announced that unless you have exceptional circumstances, the following are not allowed to enter the country:

• Foreign nationals who have been to Zhejiang or Hubei provinces in China within 14 days prior to arrival.
• Foreign nationals who have travelled to Daegu or Cheongo within 14 days of arrival into Japan.
• Foreign nationals who have a Chinese passport issued by Zhejiang or Hubei Provinces in China.

For more information on what countries are currently affected by the outbreak, cosult the Foreign & Commonwealth Office.

Will coronavirus affect my travel insurance?

For more information surrounding the impact of coronavirus on travel, please see our coronavirus guidance page. This contains regular updates on the coronavirus outbreak, as well as any effect it may have on a Japan travel insurance policy.

What is coronavirus?

Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19 is a new strain of coronavirus first identified in Wuhan City, China. As it's predominantly a virus that attacks the respiratory system, symptoms include a high temperature, cough, and shortness of breath. For a more in-depth explanation, the World Health Organisation is an excellent source of official, regulated information regarding the outbreak.

The Diamond Princess cruise ship outbreak

As you may have seen in the news, on 3rd February 2020 a substantial outbreak of coronavirus occurred on the Diamond Princess cruise ship. With 10 initial cases, this had spread to 619 confirmed cases by 20th February. Due to the confined nature of a cruise ship, the basic reproduction was 4 times higher than that in the outside world. The cruise ship is currently docked at Yokohama, Japan under quarantine.

Protecting yourself from coronavirus

Though there is currently no cure for coronavirus, here are a few easy steps to help both protect yourself and to avoid potential transmission.

• Was your hands frequently with soap and water, or clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Cover your hand and mouth while a tissue while coughing and sneezing, and dispose of the used tissue immediately.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are, or have recently been unwell.
• If you have a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, seek medical care early.
• Stay informed on the development of COVID-19, and follow any advice given by your healthcare provider.

Countries affected by coronavirus

Or maybe you'regoing on a cruise?