New Delhi: Indians coming from countries that are not designated as high-risk for coronavirus should refrain from travelling unless it is important and should stay where they are, the Ministry of External Affairs said Thursday.

“All the people, including Indians, should stay put where they are if they can manage to do it. If they are not able to do it and they have to take a mandatory visit for any compelling reason, then it is advisable to get test certificate,” said Dammu Ravi, Additional Secretary and COVID-19 Coordinator with the ministry.

This advice is for people with symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), including those with a diagnosis of coronavirus (COVID-19) infection, who must remain at home until they are well.

The main messages are:

• if you have symptoms of coronavirus infection (COVID-19), however mild, do not leave your home for 7 days from when your symptoms started (see ending isolation section for more information)
• this action will help protect others in your community while you are infectious
• plan ahead and ask others for help to ensure you can successfully stay at home
• ask your employer, friends and family to help you to get the things you need to stay at home
• stay at least 2 metres (about 3 steps) away from other people in your home whenever possible
• sleep alone, if possible
• wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds, each time using soap and water, or use hand sanitiser
• stay away from vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, as much as possible.