As the Lunar New Year approaches, travel activity in China is set to surge, with an estimated nine billion domestic and international trips expected during the 40-day Spring Festival period. This represents a nearly 7% year-on-year increase, supported by the recent expansion of China's visa-free transit policy. The public holiday will run from 28 January to 4 February.
International SOS has released guidance to help individuals and organisations manage potential health and safety risks associated with the festive season.
Health precautions
With a rise in respiratory virus infections reported in China, Dr Echo Li, medical director for China at International SOS, emphasised the importance of vaccination: “It is advisable for employees and their families to prioritise vaccination before travelling and to stay informed of health risks and medical alerts at their destination.”
Additionally, travellers should wear masks in crowded environments, particularly during social gatherings, and ensure food and water safety to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Security awareness
International SOS released a set of precautions to minimise the impact of the current increase in respiratory virus cases during the Spring Festival. Photo Credit: International SOS
The celebrations are expected to draw large crowds worldwide, increasing security risks. Yingyan Zhang, Senior Travel Risk Manager at International SOS, highlighted the importance of vigilance: “Precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings and remaining vigilant against potential pickpocketing and scams are crucial.”
Travellers should be aware of crowd surges, adhere to local crowd control measures, and avoid densely packed areas whenever possible.
Travel safety recommendations
International SOS advises organisations to take the following steps to ensure employee safety during this period:
Clear travel policies: Review and update travel safety guidelines to reflect current health and security risks. Encourage people to adhere to local regulations and avoid overcrowded areas.
Pre-travel training: Provide briefings and access to online safety tools to prepare travellers for unexpected situations.
Reliable resources: Share up-to-date information, such as government travel advisories, local emergency contact numbers, and weather alerts. Equip travellers with the tools to make informed decisions during their trips.
Responsible practices: Encourage individuals to remain aware of their surroundings, follow health precautions, and respect local laws to minimise risks.