Got a trip to Amsterdam booked and concerned about Corona Virus? Find out what you need to know here…

The current coronavirus pandemic reached the Netherlands on a couple of weeks ago, when the first case was confirmed in Tilburg, a city in the south. Since then, just over 600 people have tested positive for the virus. The vast majority of these cases have been in the southern provinces of the Netherlands but a few people have also tested positive in the Amsterdam region.

Yesterday, the Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, announced a series of measures to limit the spread of the virus. Large events have been cancelled or postponed (including professional football matches, dance festivals and concerts etc) and people have been asked to take a number of precautions. These are most strict in Noord-Brabant (in the south) where people are being asked to limit social contact and work from home wherever possible.

Universities are suspending physical teaching until the start of April but schools remain open and people are going about their daily lives in much the same way as before, whilst being cautious to avoid spreading the disease.

Although there may be disruption with flights in the future, most people in Europe (excluding Italy) are continuing to travel without any kind of problems.

But what exactly does this mean for tourists visiting Amsterdam?

Should I cancel my trip to Amsterdam?

If you are planning to come to the Netherlands over the coming weeks, or are already in Amsterdam, there is not any need to panic unduly. Simply ensure that you are following the government’s recommendations and the advice of international health organisations and paying attention to any changes with regard to travel requirements and flight schedules. The most important changes for tourists will be the closing down of museums and the cancellation of events with more than 100 people in attendance.

Reducing the Risk of Coronavirus Infection whilst travelling

• Regularly wash your hands thoroughly (for 20 seconds) using soap and hot water.
• Keep your distance (at least 1m) from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your face as much as possible.
• Be sure to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze/cough and immediately wash your hands (as described above).
• Ensure that you have valid travel insurance before coming to the Netherlands.
• Avoid shaking hands where possible

In the unlikely chance that you do fall unwell and suspect that you may have Coronavirus (if you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing) be sure to seek medical attention as early as possible. Follow the advice of your doctor and self-isolate (avoiding contact with others) as much as possible. Continue to wash your hands as much as possible.

We Are Amsterdam – Coronavirus Policy

We are striving to continue our activities as normally as possible, whilst minimising our risk of spreading or becoming infected with Coronavirus. We are following the advice of authorities with regards to reducing the risks of infection and will continue to operate within the confines of the government’s measures. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.