Health & Fitness
Here’s How To Protect Yourself Against COVID-19 While Traveling
As one Banner Health expert explains, even fully vaccinated families need to take a few precautions to stay safe on their next vacation.
As more people are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, restrictions are lifting and the urge to travel seems to be at an all-time high. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a person is fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose in a two-dose series or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine. And while being fully vaccinated does provide you with some protection and added peace of mind, there are still steps you should take to keep safe if you choose to travel.
“Even for fully vaccinated families, travelling is not 100 percent guaranteed to be safe,” says Brandie Beuthin, RN, an infection prevention regional director at Banner Health. “But this summer should be much better than last year for families that have the travel bug.”
Whether you plan to gather your crew for a road trip or hit the friendly skies with family for your next vacation, Banner Health has you covered with tips to help keep you protected against COVID-19.
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If You Haven't Already, Get Vaccinated
According to the CDC, fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing except where required by federal, state, local, tribal or territorial laws, rules and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.
Individuals should still take all precautions until fully vaccinated. And if you haven't been vaccinated yet, the CDC recommends you do.
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Stay Updated On Restrictions
Although vaccinations are taking place nationwide, restrictions often vary by state. There’s also the chance that the state you reside in has looser restrictions than the state you’re traveling to. The CDC recommends you keep up to date on these restrictions by checking the state or territorial and local health department where you are, along your route and where you’re going.
While cities and states have their own set of restrictions, you should also be mindful of the specific restrictions of the restaurants, shops and other attractions you plan to visit while on vacation. Many of these establishments list their policies online, making it easy for you to be informed well before your travels.
Prepare For The Friendly Skies
According to the CDC, people who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine or a vaccine authorized for emergency use by the World Health Organization (WHO) can travel safely within the United States. But when traveling by plane, wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is still required. Before you arrive in a new state or U.S. territory, check to see what restrictions are still in place for travelers. Although many domestic locations no longer require fully vaccinated travelers to get tested or self-quarantine, some — such as Hawaii — still require visitors to have a negative COVID-19 test or complete a 10-day quarantine.
For those who are traveling by plane internationally, regulations do differ. You still need to show a negative test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before you board an international flight back to the United States. It is also recommended that you get tested three to five days after international travel.
Play It Safe At Gatherings
After months of lockdown, your inbox is likely already starting to fill with wedding invites, save-the-dates and news of other group gatherings. You may even be planning your own get-together with friends and family. If you are fully vaccinated, meeting in groups can be safe as long as you keep a few key recommendations in mind.
Generally speaking, the smaller the gathering, the better. Even if you and the other attendees are fully vaccinated, the CDC still recommends that you avoid medium to large gatherings. If you’re not sure who’s vaccinated, keep the festivities outdoors, in a back yard or park. Lastly, do not attend if you or someone in the group has been showing symptoms of COVID-19 or has been exposed to it.
Avoid Destinations With Eased Restrictions
As you narrow your travel options, it may be tempting to opt for a destination with eased restrictions. Even for people who are fully vaccinated, cities and states with lifted mask mandates and limited restrictions can be risky. These relaxed restrictions, paired with an increase in tourists, can be tough on locals and could possibly put you at risk.
Thankfully, there are plenty of other options for your spring and summer travel. You can quite literally explore the road less traveled with a visit to a small town with a great state park or a quaint city with an impressive art community.
Continue To Play It Safe
Throughout the pandemic, we have all been equipped with the knowledge to keep ourselves, our family and our friends safe. As you begin to make travel plans for the warmer months ahead, stay vigilant about protecting yourself and others by wearing your mask, keeping your distance and thoroughly washing your hands. Both the CDC and Banner Health websites provide ample information and updates on COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccine.
Get The Latest News And Updates On The COVID-19 Vaccine From Banner Health
Sources:
Banner: Beaches and BBQs: Planning for a Safe, Vaccinated Summer
Banner: COVID-19 Vaccine
Banner: COVID-19 Symptoms
Banner: Mask Up: Wear This, Not That to Protect Others
CDC: Domestic Travel During COVID-19
CDC: When You’ve Been Fully Vaccinated How to Protect Yourself and Others
CDC: Key Things to Know about COVID-19 Vaccines
CDC: Guidance for Organizing Large Events and Gatherings
CDC: COVID-19 Vaccines Work