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Lunar New Year 2025: Travel and Safety Tips Amid Rising Respiratory Virus Concerns

As China prepares to celebrate Lunar New Year, the nation is bracing for a record-breaking nine billion inbound and domestic trips during the 40-day Spring Festival travel period. The official public holiday, from January 28 to February 4, marks a time of reunions and festivities, fueled further by the recent expansion of visa-free transit policies. This year’s travel volume represents a nearly 7% increase compared to the previous year, with major cities around the world also gearing up for large gatherings to honor the occasion.


However, the festivities coincide with a rise in respiratory virus cases, prompting calls for heightened vigilance. Dr. Echo Li, Medical Director for China at International SOS, emphasized the importance of vaccination and staying informed about health risks and medical advisories. She noted that increased travel and social gatherings create ideal conditions for respiratory infections to spread, especially during the winter months. Precautions such as wearing masks in crowded areas and practicing food and water safety can significantly reduce health risks during the celebrations.

Safety concerns extend beyond health, as the large crowds anticipated during Lunar New Year increase the potential for security risks. According to Yingyan Zhang, Senior Travel Risk Manager at International SOS, travelers should remain vigilant against pickpocketing, scams, and crowd surges. She stressed the importance of safeguarding personal belongings, adhering to crowd control measures, and maintaining situational awareness throughout the festivities.

In light of these challenges, International SOS has called on organizations to play an active role in ensuring the health and safety of their employees during the Spring Festival. Companies are encouraged to review and update travel safety protocols, provide reliable resources such as travel advisories and emergency contact numbers, and offer pre-travel training to equip employees with essential safety knowledge. By fostering responsible travel practices and emphasizing vigilance, organizations can help their workforce navigate the risks associated with this busy holiday period.

As millions come together to celebrate Lunar New Year, prioritizing health and safety is crucial to ensuring a joyful and secure festive season. With the right precautions and a proactive approach, both individuals and organizations can mitigate risks and make the most of this vibrant cultural celebration.


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