US tells citizens to return home

The US has issued a new alert, urging its citizens not to travel abroad under any circumstances and to return home if they are already abroad unless they plan to remain overseas.

The alert said that in countries where commercial departure options remain available, US citizens who live in the country should arrange for immediate return home unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period.

"We strongly encourage you to continue working with your airline or travel arranger," Donald Tapia, the US ambassador to Jamaica, said. "I strongly urge American citizens in Jamaica to adhere to the travel advisory issued."

The coronavirus COVID-19 is affecting 179 countries and territories around the world. At press time on Thursday, there were 244,979 coronavirus cases recorded globally and 10,035 deaths. Some 95 per cent of the people infected with the new coronavirus have come down with mild symptoms.