This travel ban comes in response to the coronavirus being declared a global emergency by the World Health Organisation and takes immediate effect.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne said Antigua and Barbuda are small island communities and it is imperative that the authorities take the necessary steps to mitigate any threat to the health of its citizens and residents.

PM Browne said the concern shown by China for the rest of the world is highly commendable.

He was full of praise for the Chinese government who he said took very strong measures and multi-sectoral approaches to prevent further spread of the virus.

He said the Antigua and Barbuda government will monitor developments related to the coronavirus and will continue to strengthen its capacity to respond to any related eventuality.

The Prime Minister also attempted to reassure the families of students in China.

He said his office will remain in contact with them and take every possible step to keep them safe and unaffected by the fast-spreading virus.