Note to correspondents regarding precautionary measures at UN Headquarters
 
Following extensive consultations with senior management, including the Medical Director, the Secretary-General has taken the decision to step up precautionary measures at UN Headquarters to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
All staff will be required to telecommute unless their physical presence in the workplace is needed to carry out essential services. This will be effective Monday, 16 March, until Sunday, 12 April.  After three weeks, we will assess the necessity of maintaining a reduced level of staff in the building.
Our aim is twofold: to reduce our physical presence at United Nations Headquarters, while continuing to deliver on our mandates. It is essential that we reduce social contact to a minimum and follow the clear instructions of the World Health Organization to minimize the risks of transmitting the infection.
The Secretary-General has informed Member States and staff of his decision.
The Secretary-General and senior management continue to monitor the situation and will take further measures as needed.

Stephane Dujarric
Spokesman for the Secretary-General