Americans urged not to travel abroad over coronavirus

WASHINGTON

The U.S. urged all of its citizens Thursday to not embark on international travel, and asked those abroad to return immediately, citing the threat posed by the global spread of the new coronavirus.

The State Department told Americans in countries "where commercial departure options remain available," to return to the U.S. immediately "unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period," in a potential sign the U.S. may soon seal its borders.

"If you choose to travel internationally, your travel plans may be severely disrupted, and you may be forced to remain outside of the United States for an indefinite timeframe," the agency said in its level four global travel advisory.