**Update March 16th: We have continued to monitor the situation and make the appropriate recommendations to the community. As many cities and countries have imposed quarantines or partial lock-downs, we advise all members to stay up to date with local regulations and rules. Please continue to maintain social distancing and seek medical treatment if you feel ill. Avoid crowded areas and large events. For some ways to continue to use Couchsurfing during these times, check out our post on Couchsurfing from home. Stay safe and up to date!**
**Update March 5th: We urge all travelers to actively communicate with their hosts regarding the local situation in the cities and towns they are traveling to. The situation can change rapidly and there is a potential for travel to be affected or halted due to the virus. Ensure that you have a backup plan if your host is unable to host you, contact your insurance regarding trip cancelations or rerouting tickets. If you plan to attend events, contact the organizer to ensure it is still taking place as some cities have limited public gatherings. Continue to take all usual precautions, like washing hands, seeking medical attention if you feel ill and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.**
In December, 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was reported in China and has since been reported in various countries. “COVID-19 is still affecting mostly people in China with some outbreaks in other countries. Most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others.” –WHO
Our top priority at Couchsurfing is your safety. We recommend that you stay up to date on the virus through the WHO (World Health Organization) website, your local news, and your country’s health warnings. If you have an upcoming trip to a place that currently has Coronavirus outbreaks, please read that country’s health recommendations as well. If you are currently hosting or surfing, please communicate with your host/surfers and be respectful and understanding of any trip changes. If you are feeling unwell, inform your guest or host and ensure that they are comfortable with the trip proceeding.
Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.
World Health Organization
The WHO recommends the following basic protective measures against the Coronavirus:
1. Wash your hands frequently
2. Maintain social distancing (2 metres/6 feet) when in public
3. Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth
4. If you have a fever, cough, and difficult breathing – seek medical care early
5. Wear a face mask when in public
Given the situation in Europe, I am surprised to receive updates of travelers looking for hosts.
There is no reason to foresee much improvement in the short term (at least the next two weeks). I don’t understand why the website doesn’t stop all demands in France, Spain, Italy, Belgium etc. or a least sends a warning.
My advice (I am rather repeating what is being said) is : forget the idea of travelling for a while and if you are far from home do your best to get back if you can. And if you come from overseas, although airlines and trains are almost in shut down mode, you should talk to your local embassy to get advice and help.