The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has one system of rating the risks by nation, the U.S. State Department another, producing different travel alert levels for the same nation in lots of cases. Mexico, a popular vacation spot with American vacationers this yr, is deemed a stage 4 by the CDC – that means to avoid all travel – however a level 3 by the State Department – meaning “reconsider travel.” The Bahamas was simply raised to a level 4 by the CDC and is a level 3 on the State Department scale.
The State Department is about to clear up some of that confusion, and the news isn’t good for travelers pondering a trip abroad.
The State Department on Monday mentioned it’s raising the alert level for a significant number of nations this week as it factors the CDC’s COVID data more heavily into its rating system.
“As travelers face ongoing risks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of State will begin updating its travel advisories this week to better reflect the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s science-based Travel Health Notices that outline current points affecting travelers’ health,” the department mentioned in a statement. “Our advisories also take into account logistical factors, including in-country testing availability and current travel restrictions for U.S. citizens.”
The agency mentioned approximately 80% of nations will now carry the “Don’t travel” label, a level 4.
The State Department mentioned the pandemic continues to pose “unprecedented risks” to travelers.
“In light of those risks, the Department of State strongly recommends U.S. residents reconsider all travel abroad.”
The elevated alert level comes as the number of vaccinated Americans is increasing and COVID restrictions are being lifted in many states and in some nations. Iceland, Croatia, Greece, and Israel are among the nations welcoming or about to welcome vaccinated Individuals.
In early April, the CDC mentioned fully vaccinated Americans can resume domestic and international travel at low risk to themselves. But it noted that international travel poses extra risks given the spread of new COVID-19 variants.
Despite the new guidance for vaccinated travelers, the CDC says individuals should keep home.
“CDC is not recommending travel at this time due to the number of rising cases,” director Rochelle Walensky mentioned at a White House briefing in early April.
Millions of Americans are ignoring the advice, with travel rising steadily this spring, according to Transportation Security Administration screening numbers and optimism about bookings from airline executives.
