The holiday seasons are rapidly approaching with promises of gifts, family, and pumpkin spice everything. In addition, with vaccinations being steadily rolled out, some may want to travel to see family members for the first time since the pandemic’s start. All the travel, however, places people at risk of getting and passing on COVID to others. Thus, this holiday season is a time of happiness and stress as people navigate safe traveling guidelines.
The CDC offers guidelines for both vaccinated and unvaccinated folks. The CDC asks for all people to delay travel as much as possible, however, people who are vaccinated with an FDA-approved vaccine (Moderna, J&J, or Pfizer) can travel safely within the US. There are steps to promote health and safety during and after travel:
During:
It is required to wear a mask over your nose and mouth on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation in the US. Travelers are not required to wear these masks in outdoor areas. In areas with high rates of COVID-19, however, travelers are strongly encouraged to wear masks in crowded outdoor settings or for activities with close contact with people who are not vaccinated. Be sure to follow state and local recommendations when travelling.
After:
Self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms and isolate/get tested if you develop symptoms. You do not need to get tested or self-quarantine if you are fully vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 3 months. Be sure to follow travel recommendations.
Although the CDC strongly discourages those who are unvaccinated to travel, travelers who are unvaccinated are still able to travel. To travel, however, there are steps unvaccinated travelers must take during and after traveling:
During:
It is required to wear a mask over your nose and mouth on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of transportation in the US. The CDC recommend travelers who are not fully vaccinated to continue to wear a mask and maintain physical distance while traveling both inside and outside. Be sure to avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet apart from anyone who is not traveling with you. Finally, were your hands often and or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).
After:
Get tested with a viral test 3-5 days after travel and quarantine at home for 7 full days after your trip. Even if you test negative, self-quarantine for a full 7 days; if you test positive, isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected. Avoid people who are at increased risk for sever illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not. Be sure to self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms and isolated and get test if you develop symptoms.
No matter if you are vaccinated or unvaccinated, it is essential to check travel restrictions. Various states and cities may have specific restrictions or guidelines for travelers. Be sure to check the state, territorial, or local health department of where you are going. Prepare to be flexible during your travel as the restrictions and guidelines may change during travel. If more support is needed to navigate traveling during the age of COVID, check out the travel planner by the CDC to help find important COVID-19 related information. This holiday season, be sure to travel safely and informed to ensure you can enjoy where you are going properly.
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