Following the coronavirus outbreak and its spread in Europe, Bosnia's Civil Affairs Ministry on Monday issued the instruction for competent institutions and their activities in case if the presence of the virus is detected on the country's territory.

The ministry addressed the Border Police of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sarajevo International Airport, with a note that included the recommendations of the Public Healthcare Institutes of Bosnia's both semi-autonomous regions – Federation (FBiH) and Republika Srpska (RS), which are to be distributed to all passengers who come to Bosnia and Herzegovina from the People's Republic of China, particularly Hubei province and the city of Wuhan.

“Besides the implementation of delivered recommendations, it was agreed that representatives of the Border Police of Bosnia and Herzegovina will immediately inform the FBiH Healthcare Ministry/Public Healthcare Institute, RS Ministry of Health and Social Welfare/Public Healthcare Institute and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina about the arrival of all domestic and foreign citizens to the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who come from the People's Republic of China, especially the Hubei province, the city of Wuhan,” the note said.

The Border Police officers are to deliver the details on the persons who enter Bosnia, including the place of their residence, the period of their stay and a phone number.

The ministry also advised the employees working at the border crossings and airports as well as the Border Police officers to wear surgical masks and disposable gloves during the security check procedures, to avoid close contact and make sure they maintain their hand hygiene.

“The Civil Affairs Ministry of Bosnia and Herzegovina will timely inform all institutions in case of further WHO recommendations,” said the ministry.