Safe Travel in the Covid Era
As spring draws near and we enter a full year on COVID lockdown, cabin fever is more unbearable than ever. If you’re considering stretching your legs and hitting the road, here is a rundown of some CDC guidelines for traveling safely in the age of COVID-19.
Current Travel Restrictions
The CDC advises that all non-essential travel be avoided at this time. Cases of COVID-19 remain high across the US. At time of publication, all travelers are required to present a negative COVID test result or documentation proving recovery from the virus in order to board a US flight. This applies to all airlines and ports of entry.
Before traveling, check state and local guidelines pertaining to any quarantine requirements. A mask mandate is currently in effect for all federal property including government buildings, public transport and hubs such as train stations, bus terminals and airports. Keep in mind that travelers may feel normal with no noticeable symptoms, while still being positive for COVID-19. Asymptomatic carriers of the virus are still capable of spreading it to friends, family and the general public while abroad.
Before Traveling
Check hospital availability, both at home and at your destination. Many hospitals and clinics are currently overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. Not only is this a tell-tale sign of high risk in your area, but it also means that space is limited. Chances are slim that you will be admitted for medical treatment in the case of a sudden emergency.
Consider your transportation plan. Do you intend to travel via any public transport that might make social distancing difficult? This includes options such as subways, trains and air travel.
Activities like large social gatherings, use of public transport and exposure to facilities such as bars, fitness centers and movie theaters can increase your risk for contracting COVID-19. Before traveling, you should consider how much time you have spent in these high-risk environments within the last four days.
If Travel is Unavoidable
Check vaccine availability in your area and get fully vaccinated if you are eligible. The CDC recommends waiting 14 days after receiving your final dose, to ensure your body has time to build up a maximum defense.
Receive a viral test 1-3 days prior to departure. Do not travel if your test returns positive. Carry a copy of your negative test results with you throughout your trip: you will likely be asked to present them in certain situations, including at airports.
Wear a mask. Masks are currently required on all forms of public transport throughout the US, and most states have their own similar requirements. Bring along extra items such as masks, sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Carry hand sanitizer on your person at all times: preferably one with at least 60% alcohol content.
Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes. This includes while wearing gloves; as germs remain on the glove surface for some time. Gloves should be immediately removed and discarded after leaving a high-risk area, and objects touched with the gloves such as personal items or purchases should be sanitized.
Types of Travel
If you must travel, transportation such as airplanes, buses and trains are considered to be the highest-risk options. Social distancing is difficult in these close-quarters environments. Public transport often requires time spent in lines at ticket terminals, baggage claim and security checkpoints. This brings you into close contact with frequently-touched surfaces and other individuals.
While options such as car or RV travel are safer, a risk is still present. You will need to make stops at public areas for supplies such as gas and food, still putting you and your companions at risk for exposure to COVID-19.
Hotel Accommodations
Before departure, check your hotel website for updated COVID procedures. Be advised that some amenities such as pools, fitness centers, spas, game rooms and dining areas may not be accessible during your stay.
Research your hotel’s cleaning procedures. Determine if staff members are adhering to mask mandates, and ask if frequently-touched surfaces are being disinfected or replaced regularly. Take advantage of contactless options such as online check-in, digital room keys and contactless payment. Request contactless options for service such as housekeeping and in-room dining.
If possible, take the stairs when navigating your hotel. If elevators must be used, board alone or exclusively with members of your own party.
After Travel
Currently, there is a high likelihood that you will be exposed to COVID-19 while traveling. Upon returning home, you should undergo a viral test and self-isolate at home for a week, regardless of your test results. If you cannot receive a test, the CDC recommends self-quarantine at home for 10 days after travel.
Avoid contact with those who are at high-risk for contracting COVID-19. This includes seniors over the age of 75, and those with compromised immune systems. Adhere to all state and local recommendations. Continue to wear a mask, avoid crowds, and stay at least 6 feet (roughly 2 arm-lengths) from others.
Be vigilant for any symptoms of COVID-19, but remember that asymptomatic carriers are also capable of shedding the virus. This means you may be infected with COVID without feeling ill, and could still spread it to friends or family.
Stop the Spread
Vaccine rollout is still underway, but there are many other steps we can take to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. Wearing a mask that securely covers both your mouth and nose has been proven to reduce the risk of exposure by up to 75%.
Utilize takeout, delivery and curbside options when possible for shopping and dining. Maintaining a distance of at least six feet is also extremely helpful. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and hot water, and sanitize frequently-touched items such as gas pumps and grocery store purchases.
We hope these tips will keep you safe and healthy, wherever tomorrow may take you.
