Specific risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) in China

China has reported a recent increase in the number of cases and emerging or known variants of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Shanghai municipality and Jilin province.

While there is a risk of exposure to COVID-19 throughout mainland China, following a review of the public health risk assessment process, Shanghai municipality and Jilin province now carry a high risk of exposure to the disease.

The China country page on the TRAVAX (for health professionals) and fitfortravel (for the general public) websites can be checked for regular updates or any changes to the risk of exposure to COVID-19 in China. 

Advice for travellers 

All travellers are advised to avoid non-essential travel to Shanghai municipality and Jilin province, even if fully vaccinated.

Travellers should be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in China may change at short notice and must also consider the risk of exposure in transit countries and during their journey.

Prior to travel, all travellers should be advised to:

• check the latest government guidance on the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) foreign travel advice and country specific webpages for travel to China, and the rules on entering the UK on return
• ensure they are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination
• consider their risk of severe COVID-19 and availability of medical facilities at the destination and travellers at increased risk of severe COVID-19 should carefully consider their travel plans
• consider their ability to comply with COVID-19 prevention advice during travel and at their destination
• consult the fitfortravel COVID-19: health considerations for travel webpage

Further information and advice on COVID-19 is available on the TRAVAX and fitfortravel websites.

Sources: TRAVAX, 11 May 2022 and fitfortravel, 11 May 2022