INTELLIGENCE UPDATE Coronavirus Pandemic – March 30, 2020
TABLE OF CONTENTS CURRENT SITUATION │3 Travel and Health Advisory │3 Infections and Deaths by Territory and Country │4 U.S. Government Measures │7 Work Cancellations│8 Medical Services│8 Travel Restrictions│8 National/State of Emergency│9
Global Measures │9 Argentina│9 Barbados│10 Brazil│10 Canada│10 Chile│11 Colombia│11 Costa Rica│11 Ecuador│11 El Salvador│12 Guatemala│12 Mexico│12 Nicaragua│12 Paraguay│12 Peru│13 Puerto Rico│13 Saint Lucia│13 Trinidad and Tobago│13 Uruguay│14
Virus Factsheet │14
BUSINESS RISKS │15 Business Continuity│15 Security Response Benchmarking │15
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TRAVELERS │16 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BUSINESSES │16 EMERGENCY CONTACTS │18 Disclaimer: This report was prepared for the exclusive use of the recipient. It may contain proprietary, confidential information of either the recipient or G4S Corporate Risk Services (CRS) and is not intended for public disclosure. Any dissemination or reproduction of the report is governed by the applicable contract or letter of agreement between the recipient and CRS. Any disclosures outside of the contract terms must be authorized in writing by CRS. The findings in this report are based on information provided by the recipient and information to which CRS was provided access. CRS does not assume any responsibility or liability for the failure to detect, identify or make known any additional hazards, threats or areas of risk beyond what is identified in the report. Additionally, CRS makes no representations or warranties with respect to the recipient’s use of the report nor to any third party relating to information contained in this report.
2 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
CURRENT SITUATION As of March 30, 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to escalate globally. Several countries, including the United States, are experiencing steep increases in the number of confirmed infections. In the United States, there are now 143,055 confirmed cases, with every state recording cases of infection. Within the past week, the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United States surpassed those in China and Italy, which had previously been the worst affected countries. Recorded infections have surged in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, with these states accounting for more than half of all confirmed cases in the country. The CDC has warned that sustained person-to-person infections are likely to continue across the United States. Highlights: ▪
As of 8 a.m. ET on Monday, March 30, there were 735,560 confirmed global cases and 34,830 deaths. Infections have been recorded in 177 countries and territories.
▪
In the past week, governments around the world have continued to tighten social distancing measures, including the banning of public gatherings, the suspension of schools and cancelation of sporting events. An increasing number of countries are asking all citizens to stay at home and self-isolate.
▪
On March 28, the CDC issued its first domestic travel advisory for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, instructing residents to avoid non-essential domestic travel for 14 days.
▪
At least 27 U.S. states have ordered residents to stay home, shelter in place, or some variation thereof. Cities and counties in several other states have announced similar orders restricting the non-essential movement of people outside of the home. Across the country, state authorities are introducing ever tighter restrictions on public gatherings.
▪
As of March 30, all U.S. states, territories and the District of Columbia have declared a state of emergency. The National Guard has deployed more than 11,400 troops across the nation.
Travel and Health Advisory U.S. government agencies maintain strict travel advisories. ▪
On March 19, the U.S. Department of State announced a global Level 4, Do Not Travel, advisory for all international countries and territories. It advises that those currently overseas attempt to depart using commercial means, if possible. For those who stay, it advises following CDC guidelines and limiting movement outside the home.
▪
The CDC has issued a Level 3 alert, recommending the avoidance of non-essential travel to all global destinations. Carefully considering the risk of travel within the United States, especially to areas with high rates of infection, has also been advised.
▪
On March 28, the CDC issued its first domestic travel advisory for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Residents of these states have been advised to avoid non-essential domestic travel for 14 days. Exceptions have been made for employees of critical infrastructure industries (see advisory list of critical infrastructure employees here).
The WHO risk assessment in Situation Report 69 published March 29 is as follows: Global: Very High.
3 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
Infections and Deaths by Territory and Country The table below shows the latest number of confirmed cases of infection and death tied to the coronavirus by country, area and territory. Figure – Table of Infections and Deaths by Country, Area and Territory Coronavirus Outbreak Infection Numbers – 8 a.m. March 30 ET Total Confirmed Infections: 735,560 Deaths: 34,830 Recovered: 156,380 Total Countries, Areas and Territories with Confirmed Infections: 177 Country/Area/Territory
Infected/Deaths
Country/Area/Territory
Infected/Deaths
United States
143,055; 2,513 dead
Senegal
162; 0 dead
Italy
97,689; 10,799 dead
Malta
156; 0 dead
Spain
85,195; 7,340 dead
Ghana
152; 5 dead
China
82,198; 3,308 dead
Uzbekistan
144; 2 dead
Germany
62,435; 541 dead
Cameroon
139; 6 dead
Iran
41,495; 2,757 dead
Cuba
139; 3 dead
France
40,747; 2,611 dead
Honduras
139; 3 dead
United Kingdom
19,788; 1,231 dead
Brunei
127; 1 dead
Switzerland
15,069; 312 dead
Sri Lanka
122; 1 dead
Belgium
11,899; 513 dead
Afghanistan
120; 4 dead
Netherlands
10,930; 772 dead
Venezuela
119; 3 dead
South Korea
9,661; 158 dead
West Bank and Gaza
115; 1 dead
Turkey
9,217; 108 dead
Nigeria
111; 1 dead
Austria
9,200; 8 dead
Mauritius
110; 3 dead
Canada
6,320; 65 dead
Cambodia
107; 0 dead
Portugal
5,962; 119 dead
Georgia
98; 0 dead
Israel
4,347; 16 dead
Bolivia
96; 3 dead
Norway
4,313; 29 dead
Belarus
94; 0 dead
Brazil
4,256; 136 dead
Kosovo
94; 1 dead
Australia
4,203; 17 dead
Kyrgyzstan
94; 0 dead
Sweden
3,700; 110 dead
Montenegro
91; 1 dead
Czech Republic
2,859; 17 dead
Congo (Kinshasa)
81; 8 dead
Denmark
2,724; 72 dead
Trinidad and Tobago
78; 3 dead
Malaysia
2,626; 37 dead
Rwanda
70; 0 dead
4 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
Ireland
2,615; 46 dead
Paraguay
64; 3 dead
Chile
2,139; 7 dead
Liechtenstein
62; 0 dead
Romania
1,952; 44 dead
Bangladesh
49; 5 dead
Luxembourg
1,950; 21 dead
Monaco
46; 1 dead
Ecuador
1,924; 58 dead
Kenya
42; 1 dead
Poland
1,905; 26 dead
Madagascar
39; 0 dead
Japan
1,866; 54 dead
Guatemala
34; 1 dead
Russia
1,836; 9 dead
Barbados
33; 0 dead
Pakistan
1,625; 18 dead
Uganda
33; 0 dead
Philippines
1,546; 78 dead
Jamaica
32; 1 dead
Thailand
1,524; 9 dead
El Salvador
30; 0 dead
Indonesia
1,414; 122 dead
Togo
30; 1 dead
Finland
1,343; 11 dead
Zambia
29; 0 dead
Saudi Arabia
1,299; 8 dead
Mali
25; 2 dead
South Africa
1,280; 2 dead
Ethiopia
23; 0 dead
Greece
1,156; 39 dead
Niger
22; 3 dead
India
1,071; 29 dead
Congo (Brazzaville)
19; 0 dead
Iceland
1,020; 2 dead
Djibouti
18; 0 dead
Mexico
993; 20 dead
Maldives
17; 0 dead
Panama
989; 24 dead
Guinea
16; 0 dead
Dominican Republic
859; 39 dead
Haiti
15; 0 dead
Peru
852; 19 dead
Bahamas
14; 0 dead
Singapore
844; 3 dead
Tanzania
14; 0 dead
Argentina
820; 20 dead
Equatorial Guinea
12; 0 dead
Slovenia
756; 11 dead
Eritrea
12; 0 dead
Serbia
741; 13 dead
Mongolia
12; 0 dead
Croatia
715; 6 dead
Dominica
11; 0 dead
Estonia
715; 3 dead
Namibia
11; 0 dead
Colombia
702; 10 dead
Burma
10; 0 dead
Qatar
634; 1 dead
Eswatini
9; 0 dead
Egypt
609; 40 dead
Grenada
9; 0 dead
New Zealand
589; 1 dead
Saint Lucia
9; 0 dead
5 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
United Arab Emirates
570; 3 dead
Syria
9; 1 dead
Iraq
547; 42 dead
Guyana
8; 1 dead
Morocco
516; 27 dead
Laos
8; 0 dead
Bahrain
515; 4 dead
Libya
8; 0 dead
Algeria
511; 31 dead
Mozambique
8; 0 dead
Lithuania
484; 7 dead
Seychelles
8; 0 dead
Armenia
482; 3 dead
Suriname
8; 0 dead
Ukraine
480; 11 dead
Angola
7; 2 dead
Hungary
447; 15 dead
Antigua and Barbuda
7; 0 dead
Lebanon
446; 11 dead
Gabon
7; 1 dead
Latvia
376; 0 dead
Zimbabwe
7; 1 dead
Bosnia and Herzegovina
354; 8 dead
Benin
6; 0 dead
Bulgaria
354; 8 dead
Holy See
6; 0 dead
Slovakia
336; 0 dead
Cabo Verde
6; 1 dead
Andorra
334; 6 dead
Sudan
6; 2 dead
Costa Rica
314; 2 dead
Fiji
5; 0 dead
Tunisia
312; 8 dead
Mauritania
5; 0 dead
Taiwan
306; 5 dead
Nepal
5; 0 dead
Uruguay
304; 1 dead
Bhutan
4; 0 dead
Kazakhstan
294; 1 dead
Gambia
4; 1 dead
Kuwait
266; 0 dead
Nicaragua
4; 1 dead
Moldova
263; 2 dead
Central African Republic
3; 0 dead
Jordan
259; 4 dead
Chad
3; 0 dead
North Macedonia
259; 6 dead
Liberia
3; 0 dead
San Marino
224; 22 dead
Somalia
3; 0 dead
Albania
223; 11 dead
Belize
2; 0 dead
Burkina Faso
222; 12 dead
Guinea-Bissau
2; 0 dead
Cyprus
214; 6 dead
Saint Kitts and Nevis
2; 0 dead
Azerbaijan
209; 4 dead
Papua New Guinea
1; 0 dead
Vietnam
194; 0 dead
Saint Vincent Grenadines
Oman
179; 0 dead
Timor-Leste
Cote d’Ivoire
165; 1 dead
6 | Intelligence Update
and
the
1; 0 dead 1; 0 dead
G4S Corporate Risk Services
The map and chart below show the location of confirmed cases of infection and death tied to the coronavirus. Figure – Map and Chart of Confirmed Global Cases of COVID-19
Source: Johns Hopkins Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE)
U.S. Government Measures On March 6, the U.S. government announced the allocation of $8.3 billion to combat the epidemic, and preventive measures are continuing to escalate. In addition, a $2.2 trillion rescue package was approved by Congress on March 27, the largest rescue bill in U.S. history. The rescue package is intended to provide support to U.S. workers, businesses, the healthcare system and state and local governments. State and local health departments are in the mitigation phase of responding to the outbreak, which includes
7 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
conducting investigations into possible infections, establishing isolation orders and trying to disrupt chains of transmission. In the past week, there has been a rapid escalation in social distancing measures encouraged in several states, although such mitigation strategies have been introduced unevenly across the country. In general, the state of epidemic response varies greatly from state to state and county to county. Clients are advised to research their own areas of operation and residence to ascertain the most accurate and up-to-date information. Work Cancellations ▪
Adjustments and cancellations to normal school schedules are widespread throughout the United States. Many schools and colleges have announced that the remainder of the semester will be taught online.
▪
As of the week of March 30, most restaurants, movie theaters, bars, gyms and other public venues have been instructed to close in most states.
▪
An increasing number of state authorities are encouraging or ordering businesses, institutions and organizations to let “non-essential” employees work remotely from home. As with other epidemic countermeasures, these may vary significantly from place to place, and clients are advised to research their own locations.
▪
A growing number of employers have introduced work from home arrangements for “non-essential staff.”
Medical Services ▪
Most medical services across the county are currently operating normally with few signs of strained capacity, except for some cases in badly hit areas, such as New York City. Many states are rapidly stepping up efforts to acquire ventilators and other vital medical equipment amid fears of a shortage to deal with expected demand.
▪
Many hospitals are starting to adjust their epidemic preparedness and response plans to take into account a potential heightened need for specialized equipment and the possibility of outsourcing patient services to off-site facilities, among other measures.
▪
Several states are setting up drive-thru testing sites offering screening services.
▪
In badly affected New York City, five emergency field hospitals are being constructed in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx, with a combined capacity of more than 4,000 beds. The USNS Comfort, a Navy hospital ship equipped with 1,000 beds and 12 operating rooms, is scheduled to arrive in New York on Monday. Another Navy hospital ship, the USNS Mercy, arrived in Los Angeles on March 27 and has begun providing emergency services.
Travel Restrictions ▪
On March 19, the U.S. Department of State announced a global Level 4, Do Not Travel, advisory for all international countries and territories. It advises that those currently overseas attempt to depart using commercial means, if possible. For those who stay, it advises following CDC guidelines and limiting movement outside the home.
▪
The CDC has issued a Level 3 alert, recommending the avoidance of non-essential travel to all global destinations. Carefully considering the risk of travel within the United States, especially to areas with high rates of infection, has also been advised.
▪
On March 28, the CDC issued its first domestic travel advisory for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Residents of these states have been advised to avoid non-essential domestic travel
8 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
for 14 days. Exceptions have been made for employees of critical infrastructure industries (see advisory list of critical infrastructure employees here). ▪
From March 13, the United States introduced a 30-day ban on travelers from Europe, except for returning U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, diplomatic and official travelers, air and sea crew members, members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their spouses and children, and certain other categories of travelers. On March 16, the ban was extended to cover the United Kingdom and Ireland.
▪
As of March 21, all non-essential travel across the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders has been temporarily banned for at least 30 days. Trade, commerce, medical and education related travel will be permitted to continue across the border. U.S. citizens, permanent residents and those with work permits will be exempt from the ban.
▪
At least 27 states have ordered residents to stay home, shelter in place, or some variation thereof (see a list here). Cities and counties in several other states have announced similar orders. Similar to lockdown measures taken in China, Italy and Spain, these orders generally place restrictions on the free movement of people outside of the home. There are exceptions for those working essential jobs and for collecting critical supplies, such as groceries and medicine.
▪
States are introducing measures at airports and state borders to screen travelers from badly affected states, such as New York. In addition, some states are mandating that travelers from badly affected states are required to self-isolate for 14 days.
▪
A growing number of U.S. companies have cancelled all international business travel for their employees.
National/State of Emergency ▪
On March 13, the President of the United States declared a national emergency. As of March 23, all states, territories and the District of Columbia have declared a state of emergency. The National Guard has deployed more than 11,400 troops across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Washington, D.C.
Global Measures Preventive measures taken by the international community also continue to escalate. Argentina Current situation: 820 confirmed cases and 20 deaths have been reported. A mandatory nationwide quarantine began on March 20, and will likely be extended through mid-April. All individuals are required to remain at home unless going out to purchase basic goods. Only bakeries, supermarkets, pharmacies, public and private hospitals and service stations will be allowed to operate. Police officers have been deployed to enforce the quarantine. Infection locations: Most confirmed cases have been recorded in Buenos Aires, although a majority of regions have been affected. Travel restrictions: Argentina closed its borders to all non-residents on March 15. Most international flights have been suspended. All flights from Europe and the United States are suspended for at least 30 days as of March 17.
9 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
Barbados Current situation: 33 confirmed cases and 0 deaths have been reported. The government of Barbados has announced a national public health emergency. As of March 28, a nightly curfew is in place from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. until at least April 15. Infection locations: According to the Ministry of Health, most cases have been travel related and there is no evidence of community spread at this time. Travel restrictions: All travelers arriving from, or with a recent travel history in, China, Iran, South Korea, the United States, United Kingdom and Europe are subject to quarantine for 14 days. Brazil Current situation: 4,256 confirmed cases and 136 deaths have been reported. Several states have implemented restrictions for their residents. For example, Sao Paulo has asked non-essential businesses to close and for residents to remain at home when possible, though this has not required the restriction of movement outright. In addition, the governor of Sao Paulo implemented a 15-day quarantine in the state starting March 24 for 15 days. The state of Rio de Janeiro closed all schools as of March 16, and the State of Sao Paulo will begin shutting schools down gradually. The state of Brasilia has cancelled all schools and public events. State-level authorities from several cities and states, including Rio de Janeiro and Paraíba, have declared a state of emergency. Infection locations: The worst affected state is Sao Paulo, with more than 810 cases and 40 deaths. Confirmed infections have been recorded in all states. Travel restrictions: On March 19, the government closed the country's land borders with Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Suriname, Guyana and French Guiana for two weeks. The land border with Venezuela closed on March 17. The government announced on March 22 that it would close its border with Uruguay. The restrictions do not apply to Brazilian nationals or foreigners residing in the country, while trucks carrying essential goods and people on humanitarian missions will continue to be allowed entry. There are flights, but many airlines are reducing or cancelling their domestic and international services. Travelers from the EU, the UK, Ireland, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, China, Japan, Iran, South Korea, Australia, Venezuela, Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname and Malaysia have been temporarily prohibited from entering Brazil. Canada Current situation: 6,320 confirmed cases and 65 deaths have been reported. Canada announced an Emergency Order under the Quarantine Act on March 26, which requires any person entering the country by air, sea, or land to self-isolate for 14 days whether or not they have symptoms of coronavirus. In addition, all of Canada’s provinces/territories have declared a state of emergency, which can permit restrictions or denial of entry to domestic travel. As of March 30, New Brunswick, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut have various local border restrictions in place. Infection locations: Cases have been confirmed in all of Canada’s provinces and territories, except for Nunavut. Travel restrictions: As of March 30, individuals showing symptoms of COVID-19 must be refused boarding on domestic flights (10 seats or more) and passenger trains. This does not apply to buses or intercity passenger rail services. The land border between Canada and the U.S. closed on March 21 to all nonessential traffic for 30 days. This closure does not restrict border crossings for cargo, trade, and healthcare workers.
10 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
Chile Current situation: 2,139 confirmed cases and 7 deaths have been reported. Starting March 26, seven communes of the Santiago Metropolitan Region will be under quarantine for one week. The will be implemented in Lo Barnechea, Vitacura, Las Condes, Providencia, Ñuùoa, Santiago and Independencia. A state of catastrophe went into effect on March 19, and will last for 90 days. A ban on public gatherings of more than 500 people and school closures remain in place. Infection locations: The overwhelming majority of cases have occurred in the Santiago metropolitan area, but all regions have been affected. Travel restrictions: The closure of Chilean land, sea, and air borders occurred on March 18, and is expected to remain in place for 15 days. The ban does not apply to cargo and associated personnel. Colombia Current situation: 702 confirmed cases and 10 deaths have been reported. The Colombian government implemented a 19-day nationwide curfew as of March 24 that will remain in place until at least April 13. No events over 500 people are permitted. A state of emergency has been declared through March 30. Schools, bars and nightclubs nationwide remain closed. Public gatherings of more than 500 people have been prohibited. Infection locations: Confirmed cases have occurred in Bogota, Buga, Medellin and Cartagena, with additional suspected cases in other locations currently being investigated. Travel restrictions: All travelers from abroad, except Colombian citizens and permanent residents, will be barred from entering Colombia for a period of at least 30 days starting on March 23. Colombia implemented an entry ban on all foreign travelers from abroad on March 16. All those entering the country from abroad are required to self-quarantine for a period of 14 days. Costa Rica Current situation: 314 confirmed cases and 2 deaths have been reported. Costa Rican authorities have announced a state of emergency. The use of vehicles has been banned between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Restaurants and food courts may remain open, though they may only seat 50 percent of their defined capacity. Bars and beaches have been closed. All university classes have been suspended as of March 12. Infection locations: Positive cases have been confirmed in all seven of Costa Rica’s provinces. Travel restrictions: From March 18 until April 12, only Costa Rican citizens and legal residents will be allowed entry to the country by land, sea, or air. Ecuador Current situation: 1,924 confirmed cases and 58 deaths have been reported. As of March 25, the government has extended a strict curfew from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. There will be a ban on public gatherings of more than 30 people, including religious processions, during the Holy Week. Other public areas such as gyms, cinemas, theaters and other entertainment venues are subject to restrictions. All national parks have been closed until further notice. Infection locations: Positive cases have been confirmed in all regions. Travel restrictions: All international arrivals to Ecuador by air were suspended and all foreign nationals were barred from entering the country at any of its air, land, or sea border crossings as of March 15. Land borders have also been closed following decisions from the Peruvian and Colombian authorities. 11 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
Restrictions also apply to travel within Ecuador. One can only leave their residence to purchase food or medicine, or to go to and from work. El Salvador Current situation: 30 confirmed cases and 0 deaths have been reported. A mandatory nationwide quarantine for 30 days began effective March 22. The total lockdown applies to the entire population. The national Army and Police are enforcing these measures across the country. Infection locations: Confirmed or suspected cases have been recorded in the San Salvador area. Travel restrictions: Borders are closed to all non-citizens or non-residents of El Salvador. All citizens/residents arriving in El Salvador must remain in quarantine for 30 days. Guatemala Current situation: 34 confirmed cases and 1 death have been reported. A nationwide eight-day curfew went into effect on March 22. All movement will be restricted between 4 p.m. and 4 a.m. Exemptions will be made for essential personnel, including police, private security, medical professionals and food delivery drivers. Grocery stores will be closed during the above mentioned hours. Schools are closed and all social gatherings of more than 100 persons have been suspended, including religious activities. Infection locations: Confirmed cases have been reported in Guatemala City. Travel restrictions: Only Guatemalan nationals are permitted to enter Guatemala, subject to a 15-day quarantine. Mexico Current situation: 993 confirmed cases and 20 deaths have been reported. On March 24, Mexico entered phase 2 out of 3 of its COVID-19 contingency plan due to local transmission of the virus. Authorities have suspended all non-essential activities and banned events with more than 100 people. All schools and universities are closed from March 20 to April 20. Infection locations: All of Mexico’s 32 states have either confirmed or suspected cases of the virus. Travel restrictions: On March 26, Jalisco and seven other states, including Aguascalientes, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosi, Michoacán, Colima and Nayarit, will block flights from areas such as California with high rates of COVID-19. The land border between the U.S. and Mexico closed on March 21 to all non-essential traffic for 30 days. This closure applies primarily to tourism and recreational travel. Cargo, trade and healthcare workers will still be able to cross the border. Nicaragua Current situation: 4 confirmed cases and 1 death have been reported. No restrictions of movement or public gatherings have been implemented. Infection locations: Confirmed or suspected cases have been reported in the country’s capital, Managua. Travel restrictions: All international travelers are subject to a 14-day quarantine. All airlines except AeroMexico have suspended international flights. Paraguay Current situation: 64 confirmed cases and 3 deaths have been reported. Paraguayan authorities have declared a nationwide State of Sanitary Emergency and have banned all non-essential movement. On 12 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
March 28, Paraguay announced that national quarantine measures would be extended until at least April 12. All movement of vehicles and people is restricted from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., and the public has been instructed to stay at home. All social gatherings and work also have been suspended. Infection locations: Confirmed cases have been reported in Alto Parana, Caaguazu, Cordillera and Central departments. Travel restrictions: On March 24, the Paraguayan government announced that all passenger flights have been suspended until April 12. A suspension on all international flights into and out of the country remains in place since going into effect on March 22 for 30 days. Individuals who have arrived in the country within the last 14 days must comply with the self-isolation requirement for 14 days or leave the country immediately. Peru Current situation: 852 confirmed cases and 19 deaths have been reported. A state of emergency has been issued. A nationwide overnight curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. went into effect on March 18 and was extended on March 26. All private and public sector operations are suspended during the state of emergency, and all individuals nationwide are required to self-isolate for 15 days. Authorities previously announced a ban on public gatherings of more than 300 people. All public and private schools nationwide remain closed through April 12. Infection locations: Confirmed or suspected cases have been recorded in most, if not all, of Peru’s departments. Travel restrictions: All airports and borders have been closed, as of March 22. Puerto Rico Current situation: 127 confirmed cases and 5 deaths have been reported. A state of emergency was declared on the island on March 12. A two-week lockdown and an overnight 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew started on March 16, shutting down all non-essential businesses. Infection locations: Confirmed cases have been recorded in all regions. Travel restrictions: There is an entry ban for nearly all foreign nationals who have been in China, Iran, and certain European countries, including the UK and Ireland, at any point within 14 days of their scheduled travel to the U.S. Saint Lucia Current situation: 9 confirmed cases and 0 deaths have been reported. The government of Saint Lucia announced a national state of emergency, effective March 23. All nonessential activity has ceased, and a nightly curfew is in place from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. Infection locations: No cases of in-country transmission have been reported at this time. Travel restrictions: The government of Saint Lucia has closed all air, sea and land borders. Cruise ships are not permitted to dock. Trinidad & Tobago Current situation: 78 confirmed cases and 3 deaths have been reported. On March 30, local authorities will implement new “stay at home” measures for all non-essential workers. The measures will remain in place until April 15. Schools and universities are closed until April 20.
13 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
Infection locations: Confirmed cases or suspected cases have been reported in several regions and municipalities. Travel restrictions: As of March 30, the country's borders remain closed to all international flights until further notice. Authorities have announced a ban on cruise ships entering until the end of the current cruise season. All international arrivals into Trinidad and Tobago are required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days. Uruguay Current situation: 304 confirmed cases and 1 death have been reported. As of March 30, government authorities have asked residents to remain indoors as much as possible and are considering nationwide quarantine measures. Infection locations: Confirmed cases have been reported in Salto, Colonia, Soriano, Flores, Montevideo, Canelones, Maldonado and Rocha departments. Travel restrictions: On March 25, Uruguayan authorities announced that all foreign travelers, except for citizens and legal residents, will be prohibited from entering the country. In addition, there is a mandatory 14-day quarantine for passengers arriving from WHO declared risk or symptomatic countries, and those who have had contact with a coronavirus infected person. Direct flights to and from Europe and the U.S. have been suspended. The border with Argentina has been closed.
Virus Factsheet Key aspects of the Wuhan coronavirus, or “2019nCoV,” are still relatively poorly understood. The following information is derived from WHO Situation Reports and other sources: ▪
Incubation Period: 1-14 days, but generally 3-7 days. Recent research by a Chinese team found that the incubation period could be as long as 24 days. The Hubei government has said the incubation period could be as long as 27 days, based on data from one case. According to the WHO, the median incubation period has been further refined to 5-6 days.
▪
Severity: Most people display relatively mild symptoms. Current estimates suggest that about 15% progress to severe disease with 3% becoming critical, including pneumonia and respiratory failure. The mortality rate for confirmed infections is about 2%, with some experts expecting this number to fall as milder cases are found. However, these preliminary estimations should be treated with caution. The mortality rate of seasonal flu is below 0.1%. According to a WHO statement on March 9, more than 70% of coronavirus cases in China have recovered.
▪
Transmissibility: The virus is human transmissible. Recent research by Chinese scientists supports asymptomatic spread and concludes that the virus behaves similarly to the flu, suggesting that it may spread more easily than previously thought. Chinese researchers have documented the case of a woman who spread the virus to five family members without showing symptoms herself. In Chengdu, a recovered patient was readmitted to hospital after once again testing positive for the virus (an earlier test may have been a false negative). On Feb. 22, Wuhan subsequently mandated a 14 day quarantine for all patients cured of the virus. The reproduction number of the virus, expressed as “R0” (R-naught), which indicates how many additional infections will result from each infection, remains uncertain. In a disease with a value R-naught = 1 each infection would be expected to cause one additional infection; the WHO published an estimated R-naught of 1.4 to 2.5, although some teams have placed this number higher. o
Routes of transmission are believed to include respiratory droplets and close physical contact. It is also likely that the disease is transmissible via contact with contaminated surfaces, where the virus may survive for some time. There is little evidence of transmission
14 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
via the fecal-oral route. There has been some misinformation that the virus may be able to spread long distances through the air. This is false. ▪
Treatment: The only proven available treatment for the disease is standard supportive care. There is anecdotal evidence that anti-viral and AIDS drugs may be useful in treating patients, but these treatments have not yet been validated.
BUSINESS RISKS Business Continuity The coronavirus outbreak presents a heightened business risk environment for multinational corporations operating across the globe. The widespread introduction of quarantine measures and travel restrictions present a significant business continuity challenge for businesses dependent on person-to-person services and transactions, such as those operating in the tourism, hospitality, retail, retail-based financial services and banking sectors, among others. In addition, the closure of production facilities and travel bans are creating supply-chain challenges and logistical problems for the transfer of goods, equipment and the ability for employees to reach their places of work. Clients are advised to remain up to date with national and local regulations related to the crisis, and to note that measures adopted by national and local governments may not be uniform. On a broader level, the coronavirus outbreak continues to take a toll on global markets. There are mounting fears of a global recession despite recent efforts taken by various central banks to prop up the market and reassure investor confidence. In the United States, a $2.2 trillion rescue package was approved by government on March 27. Other stimulus packages have been introduced or are currently under consideration in several other countries in an effort to assist hard hit workers, businesses and healthcare systems. Whether planning to mitigate the heightened medical or business risk environment, companies — especially, but not limited to, those with a footprint in the worst-hit countries — should prepare for the crisis and its potential negative effects to be felt for months rather than weeks.
Security Response Benchmarking Multinational firms are adopting various policies in response to the outbreak, including the following: ▪
Restricting all non-essential international travel to China, Europe and other badly affected countries, or altogether.
▪
Allowing flexible working arrangements, including working from home.
▪
For employees returning from China, Europe and other badly affected countries, mandatory work from home for a set period, for example 14 days, to mitigate the risk of passing infection to other employees.
▪
Mandating that employees presenting flu-like symptoms obtain a diagnosis before returning to work.
▪
Some companies in badly affected countries have introduced controls at work, including carrying out fever checks on employees at entrances and restricting guest access to company premises.
▪
A large number of major multinational corporations and retailers (see a list here) have closed their offices, stores or suspended operations in countries experiencing a rapid uptick in infections, including the United States, Canada and Western Europe. These measures follows similar actions taken in badly hit Asian countries, such as mainland China and Hong Kong, some of which are gradually resuming operations.
15 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TRAVELERS According to the CDC, travelers should avoid non-essential travel to all global destinations. Carefully considering the risk of travel within the United States, especially to areas with high rates of infection, has also been advised. If traveling, you are recommended to: ▪
Avoid contact with sick people.
▪
Discuss travel to with your health care provider. Older adults and travelers with underlying health issues may be at risk for more severe disease.
▪
Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).
▪
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Those who have become ill during a 14-day period following travel should: ▪
Seek medical care right away. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
▪
Avoid contact with others.
▪
Do not travel while sick.
▪
Cover your mouth and nose while sneezing with a sleeve or tissue, not with the hands.
▪
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BUSINESSES According to the CDC, businesses are recommended to: Actively encourage sick employees to stay home ▪
Employees who have symptoms of acute respiratory illness should be recommended to stay home and not come to work until they are free of fever (100.4° F [37.8° C] or greater using an oral thermometer), signs of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants). Employees should notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick.
▪
Ensure that company sick leave policies are flexible and consistent with public health guidance and that employees are aware of these policies.
▪
If your company uses vendors/businesses who provide contract or temporary employees, talk with them about the importance of sick employees staying home and encourage them to develop nonpunitive leave policies.
▪
Do not require a healthcare provider’s note for employees who are sick with acute respiratory illness to validate their illness or to return to work, as healthcare provider offices and medical facilities may be extremely busy and not able to provide such documentation in a timely way.
16 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
▪
Employers should maintain flexible policies that permit employees to stay home to care for a sick family member. Employers should be aware that more employees may need to stay at home to care for sick children or other sick family members than is usual.
Separate sick employees ▪
Employees who appear to have acute respiratory illness symptoms (i.e. cough, shortness of breath) upon arrival to work or become sick during the day should be separated from other employees and be sent home immediately. Sick employees should be instructed to cover their noses and mouths with a tissue when coughing or sneezing (or an elbow or shoulder if no tissue is available).
Emphasize staying home when sick, respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene by all employees ▪
Place posters that encourage staying home when sick, cough and sneeze etiquette, and hand hygiene at the entrance to your workplace and in other workplace areas where they are likely to be seen.
▪
Provide tissues and no-touch disposal receptacles for use by employees.
▪
Instruct employees to clean their hands often with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60-95% alcohol, or wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Soap and water should be used preferentially if hands are visibly dirty.
▪
Provide soap and water and alcohol-based hand rubs in the workplace. Ensure that adequate supplies are maintained. Place hand rubs in multiple locations or in conference rooms to encourage hand hygiene.
Perform routine environmental cleaning ▪
Routinely clean all frequently touched surfaces in the workplace, such as workstations, countertops and doorknobs. Use the cleaning agents that are usually used in these areas and follow the directions on the label.
▪
No additional disinfection beyond routine cleaning is recommended at this time.
▪
Provide disposable wipes so that commonly used surfaces (for example, doorknobs, keyboards, remote controls and desks) can be wiped down by employees before each use.
Advise employees before traveling to take certain steps ▪
Check the CDC’s Traveler’s Health Notices for the latest guidance and recommendations for each country to which you will travel. Specific travel information for travelers going to and returning from China, and information for aircrew, can be found on the CDC website.
▪
Advise employees to check themselves for symptoms of acute respiratory illness before starting travel and notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick.
▪
Ensure employees who become sick while traveling or on temporary assignment understand that they should notify their supervisor and should promptly call a healthcare provider for advice if needed.
▪
If outside the United States, sick employees should follow your company’s policy for obtaining medical care or contact a healthcare provider or overseas medical assistance company to assist them with finding an appropriate healthcare provider in that country. A U.S. consular officer can help locate healthcare services. However, U.S. embassies, consulates and military facilities do not
17 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services
have the legal authority, capability and resources to evacuate or give medicines, vaccines or medical care to private U.S. citizens overseas. Additional measures in response to currently occurring sporadic importations of COVID-19 ▪
Employees who are well but who have a sick family member at home with COVID-19 should notify their supervisor and refer to CDC guidance for how to conduct a risk assessment of their potential exposure.
▪
If an employee is confirmed to have COVID-19, employers should inform fellow employees of their possible exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace but maintain confidentiality as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Employees exposed to a co-worker with confirmed COVID19 should refer to CDC guidance for how to conduct a risk assessment of their potential exposure.
In addition to these recommendations, the CDC advises businesses to create an Infectious Disease Outbreak Response Plan. Guidance and considerations for creating a plan can be found here.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS G4S Risk Operations Center For questions regarding this report or for immediate assistance, please call: ▪
G4S Risk Operations Center: (866) 604-1226
▪
Alternate Phone: (866) 943-8892
18 | Intelligence Update
G4S Corporate Risk Services