What travelers need to know about the coronavirus

The new coronavirus disease, scientifically named COVID-19, was first detected in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, at the end of December 2019. By the middle of March 2020, the virus had become a pandemic and had spread to more than 140 countries, areas, and territories on six continents, infecting over 150,000 people and leading to the deaths of thousands.

To limit the spread of the virus, countries throughout the world are closing their borders to foreign nationals and asking that their people stay home in isolation. Health authorities are asking everyone to avoid non-essential air travel and cruise travel.

As hard as it may be, in this context, travelers need to stay put.

But spending time at home does not have to be a time of boredom and anxiety. Not all the news out there is bad. China is closing its temporary hospitals after weeks of fighting the virus. The people of Italy and Spain are finding ways to have fun, socialize, and keep smiling despite the isolation; and the penguins of Chicago's Shedd Aquarium are enjoying some breathing space without the crowds.

To keep up your spirits and keep a clear head as this health crisis unfolds, we’re compiling relevant news coverage to the coronavirus, as well as some feel-good stories from around the world so that travelers stuck at home may stay informed, and stay hopeful.