There are several things to consider when deciding if it's safe to travel in the United States. Being fully vaccinated and receiving a booster reduces the chances of serious complications if you contract COVID-19 while traveling. But what else can you do to protect yourself? Start with a little pre-trip preparation. COVID-19 restrictions and advice may differ depending on where you are going.
And some destinations may have more restrictions than others. Visit the official website of the government of your destination to get started and follow these tips. CDC Guidance on Masks May Change, But Everyone in the U.S. UU.
You still need to use one on all modes of public transport. That includes planes, buses and trains. You'll also need to use one while you're inside areas such as stations or airports. In general, there is no need to wear a mask outdoors.
Well-fitting N95 and KN95 respirators offer the most protection. But the CDC says it's OK to use a multi-layer cloth or a disposable surgical mask. But there is no best option for everyone in every situation. The most important thing is that you find a mask that protects you against COVID-19, but that also fits your face well and is comfortable.
You can use a cloth mask over a disposable mask for a more secure fit. Or use a mask adjuster to get rid of gaps. Visit the CDC website for other tips on how to increase the protection of the mask you choose. COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Viruses May Remain on Surfaces.
You get rid of germs on your hands when you wash them. Lather for at least 20 seconds. If they are not present, a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is the best option. Can Coronavirus Spread Through Aerosols.
These are small droplets that come out of your mouth or nose when you breathe, talk, shout, or sing. These particles are more likely to accumulate in places without good airflow, such as crowded indoor spaces. COVID-19 is less likely to spread outdoors. This is because the wind helps disperse the coronavirus, which may be floating.
Some indoor spaces offer better circulation than others. For example, aircraft cabins have highly effective ventilation systems. The air flows from front to back and is filtered frequently. But you'll still have to wear a mask while you fly.
Know the COVID-19 situation at your destination. Check with local health departments or visit the CDC website for updated information on coronavirus. CDC also maintains a list of travel recommendations around the world. You can look for international locations where COVID-19 cases are low, moderate, high, or very high.
If you are fully vaccinated, there is no need to get tested for COVID-19 before or after travel within the U.S. But you may still have COVID-19 and don't know it. It's best to test as close to your travel date as possible. CDC says it shouldn't be more than 3 days before you leave or return.
Plan how you'll pay for health care before you leave. Check with your insurance provider to see if it will cover general or emergency medical expenses in the U.S. If they don't, consider purchasing additional health insurance for short-term trips. CDC says you need to isolate for 5 days starting from the day your symptoms began.
If you didn't have symptoms, it's from the day you tested positive. If possible, it is best to delay the trip by 10 days. Most people need to get tested for COVID-19 when they return to the U.S. The rules may change in the future.
But for now, your airline must have proof of your negative test, or a COVID-19 recovery test, before you can board the flight. If you test positive abroad, you'll want to self-isolate except for medical care. You will be authorized to travel once you test negative. Up-to-Date COVID-19 Vaccines May Protect You From Serious Illness.
But talk to your doctor if you're worried about getting sick when you travel. They'll let you know if there's more you can do to stay safe. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For inquiries related to this message, please contact our support team and provide the reference identifier below.
People who are fully vaccinated with a vaccine authorized by the FDA or a vaccine authorized for emergency use by the World Health Organization can travel safely within the United States. Delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated, because traveling increases your chances of contracting and spreading COVID-19. Getting vaccinated and wearing a mask when traveling can help protect you from COVID-19 while traveling. While some trips may be necessary to receive medical care, it is best to postpone leisure or non-essential travel that involves spending time among large groups of unrelated people in tight spaces, whether in an airport terminal or on a cruise ship. .
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