The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned blanket travel bans on travellers from southern Africa in response to the Omicron coronavirus variant.
“Blanket travel bans will not prevent the international spread, and they place a heavy burden on lives and livelihoods,” the international body said on Tuesday.
WHO has warned that such bans could discourage countries from reporting and sharing crucial data and other information.
According to the WHO, at least 56 countries have implemented travel restrictions due to the latest coronavirus variant Omicron, first found in South Africa.
South Africa has appealed to countries to lift their travel bans. The WHO appealed for an evidence-informed and risk-based approach when implementing travel restrictions. It suggested screening before travel and/or upon arrival as a primary measure.
The Australian government was among the first countries to implement travel restrictions in response to the Omicron variant of coronavirus. It has paused the planned easing of border restrictions for eligible visa holders, including international students while awaiting further information on COVID-19’s Omicron.
