COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in the U.S. are rising. It is winter which means more people are indoors. Remember to wear a mask, stay 6 feet apart, avoid crowds, and wash your hands. The more steps you take, the better protected you are against COVID-19.
Traveling can increase your chance of spreading and getting COVID-19. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.
Ask yourself:
- Are you, someone in your house or someone you will be visiting at increased risk for COVID19?
- Are cases high in your community or destination? The more cases, the more likely of getting COVID-19.
- Are hospitals in your community or destination seeing an increase in cases?
- Are hospitals in your community or destination overwhelmed with patients who have COVID-19?
- Does your home or destination have requirements or restrictions for travelers?
- During 14 days before travel, have you or those you have been in contact with people you don’t live with?
- Do your plans include traveling by bus, train, or air which can make social distancing difficult?
- Are you traveling with people who do not live with you?
If the answer to these questions is yes, consider making other plans, such as delaying travel.
If You Decide to Travel
Travel can increase the chance of spreading and getting COVID-19. Postponing trips and staying home is the best way to protect yourself. Take these steps during your trip to protect yourself”
- Check travel restrictions before you go
- Get flu shot before you travel
- Bring extra supplies, such as masks and hand sanitizer.
- Know when to delay your travel. Do not travel if you are sick.
- Wear a face mask to keep nose and mouth covered when in public settings, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs.
- Avoid close contact by staying at least 6 feet apart.
- Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid contact with anyone who is sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Consider testing before traveling.
Testing
- If you are traveling, consider a rapid test 1-3 days prior to the trip. Also consider testing 3-5 days after the trip and reduce non-essential activities for 7 days after the trip, even if the test is negative.
- Keep a copy of test results during travel, you may be asked for them.
- Do not travel if positive.
