Canadians stranded in China amidst the coronavirus outbreak are one step closer to returning home.
The federal government has chartered a plane to help evacuated Canadians from Wuhan — the epicentre of the outbreak.
In a statement late Sunday, Global Affairs Canada said the plane will land in Hanoi, Vietnam, and deploy to Wuhan once the Chinese government gives authorization to land.
Government officials and Canadian Armed Forces medical personnel are also on their way to Hanoi and in the process of obtaining the necessary visas from the government of China to enter Wuhan.
“We have been working with all levels of government, public health officials and our international partners to ensure the safe return home of Canadians from Hubei Province, including staff and the flight crew. Our plan is focused on ensuring the health and safety of all Canadians,” said Health Minister Patty Hajdu in a statement.
All returning Canadians will undergo a thorough health screening before boarding and during the flight.
Airspace surrounding Wuhan is closed amid hundreds of deaths from the virus which originated in the city.
Hadju says China will not allow anyone to board that plane if they have symptoms of the virus.
“This is actually part of China’s extensive effort to contain the spread of disease. They have been resolute on this with all countries. So I think we have to prepared to understand that’s not going to be a flexible point for discussion.”
If necessary, federal officials say a second plane is ready to go as well.
The evacuees will land at CFB Trenton in Ontario, where they will be quarantined for two weeks for further medical assessment and observation.
“We are taking action to return Canadians home from Wuhan, China, while ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to prevent and limit the spread of the novel coronavirus,” said Global Affairs Minister François-Phillippe Champagne in a statement.
Canadians must contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre at 1-613-996-8885 or sos@international.gc.ca in advance to make the necessary arrangements to access the evacuation flight.
With files from Allan Dearing and Brad Perry.
