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Travel question

Coronavirus: Can I fly to America if my flatmate is self-isolating?

Simon Calder answers questions on the Covid-19 outbreak and whether you should go-ahead with your holiday

Friday 13 March 2020 15:04 GMT
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Anyone who has symptoms that are associated with Covid-19 should not to fly
Anyone who has symptoms that are associated with Covid-19 should not to fly

Q I am booked to travel imminently from Heathrow to Pittsburgh on British Airways. But my flatmate had contact with someone who tested positive for coronavirus, and is now self-isolating and waiting to be tested. Though the official guidance for me is that I do not need to self-isolate until and unless my flatmate tests positive, I feel international travel may be irresponsible.

I tried to postpone my trip, to ensure I fly only after my flatmate’s test results come back. BA won’t let me change date without paying £848. But the airline is happy for me to get on the plane, having possibly been in contact with coronavirus. In fact, the carrier is actively encouraging it with its policy. My alternative is to miss the flight and attempt to claim back on travel insurance. What do you think?

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