Because of the quick and deadly outbreak in late December of a novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China, now known as COVID-19 infecting tens of thousands and killing hundreds within weeks, while spreading to at least 24 other countries many governments, including the United States, have banned or significantly restricted travel to and from China. And while travel bans are frequently used to stop the spread of an emerging infectious disease. The researchers combed through thousands of published articles in an effort to identify those that directly addressed travel bans used to reduce the geographic impact of the Ebola virus, SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and the Zika virus.

Bans after they were implemented, to assess the effectiveness of travel bans in controlling outbreaks. Consequently, to improve research in this area, the study authors recommend that research questions, partnerships and study protocols be established ahead of the next outbreak so empirical data can be collected and assessed quickly. Travel bans are one of several legal options that governments have drawn on to mitigate a pandemic. When assessing the need for, and validity of, a travel ban, given the limited evidence, it's important to ask if it is the least restrictive measure that still protects the public's health. Consequently, the authors write, additional research is "urgently needed to inform policy decisions, especially in light of the tremendous social, economic and political impacts of their implementation.

Regards
ALEX JOHN
Editorial Assistant
Journal of infectious disease and dignosis