CDC to Vaccinated Americans: Travel Freely, but Stay Cautious
On Friday, April 2, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced relaxed travel recommendations for vaccinated Americans.
The agency said that fully vaccinated individuals may resume travel at a low risk to themselves without tests or quarantines within the United States. Individuals are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving their final vaccine dose.
The CDC stressed that COVID-19 preventive measures should still be maintained during this time, including social distancing and mask-wearing, even for those who are fully vaccinated.
Additionally, vaccinated individuals must still comply with COVID-19 testing procedures in the area to which they’re traveling, particularly if they are traveling internationally. For instance, some locations still require negative COVID-19 tests before admitting travelers—even vaccinated ones.
The new CDC guidelines do not affect unvaccinated individuals, who are still discouraged from nonessential travel.
What’s Next?
These new CDC guidelines may be welcome news for vaccinated Americans, especially since the announcement comes right before peak travel season.
However, individuals must still be cautious. Vaccinated people may still spread COVID-19 even if the virus won’t make them sick. That means it’s critical to continue COVID-19 preventive measures.
Additionally, anyone considering travel should first research their destination’s rules about testing and other requirements before booking a trip.
Visit the CDC website for more information about how to stay safe while traveling.
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