The pandemic just won’t end. It’s 2022 and COVID-19 is once again raising its ugly head. Whenever there is a drop in corona cases, a new variant emerges. This time, it’s the Omicron variant. According to health officials, Omicron spreads more easily than its predecessors. Researchers are still trying to identify the reason behind the surge in Omicron cases.
World governments are already anticipating another wave of the pandemic. In the aftermath of the variant, U.S. authorities have issued updated travel advisories to their citizens within and outside the country (for which you might as well need a vaccine passport). The travel requirements are in place in most parts of the country. This blog will talk about COVID-19 travel requirements in different places across the U.S.
Let’s begin.
An Overview of Domestic Travel Requirements in the U.S.
Health authorities have put great emphasis on the need to get vaccinated. Getting vaccinated is by far the best way to save yourself from the virus. No matter where you travel within the country, make sure to follow all local health security protocols. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently updated the domestic travel guidelines.
CDC encourages people to get fully vaccinated before traveling anywhere within the country. People who aren’t fully vaccinated should delay their delay until they get the jab. Moreover, travelers should check the virus situation of their destination. Different localities have different traveling requirements in place for travelers.
Also, mask-wearing is mandatory in indoor areas of public transportation. Whether you’re traveling by bus, subway, or are at the airport, you have to wear a mask. Another important thing to note is that you shouldn’t travel if you have COVID-19, or are sick. Wait for the prescribed in case you have been exposed to the virus.
A Brief Look Into International Travel Requirements
Before December 6, 2021, international air passengers did not have to show a negative COVID-19 test to airport authorities. That doesn’t work now. All air authorities now require a negative corona test. If you’re traveling to the United States, you must take the test no more than one day before the travel. Non-U.S. citizens or immigrants can check the COVID-19 travel requirements here.
Travelers must also confirm their vaccination status with airport authorities. As per the CDC guidelines, you are fully vaccinated 14 days after you’ve taken a single dose of an accepted vaccine. Also, you had your second dose of an accepted two-dose series two weeks earlier. You are considered fully vaccinated 14 days after receiving the full series of an accepted jab in a clinical trial.
COVID-19 Travel Requirements in Florida
Florida is one of the most popular travel destinations in the United States. Its health department consistently updates the COVID-19 health advisory. The purpose is to inform people about the latest situation pertaining to the virus. As of this writing, no travel restrictions are in place in Florida. The state recommends people to get fully vaccinated.
Please note that different localities may have different travel protocols in place for visitors. Florida is one of the many places in the United States that don’t have any travel restrictions as of yet. That doesn’t mean COVID-19 should be taken with any less precaution. This is a rapidly evolving situation and you must take adequate steps to protect yourself and others from the virus.
COVID-19 Travel Requirements in Washington
The Washington State Department of Health has issued an updated advisory for people traveling to and from the United States. The state also has an active Care Connect Washington program. This program helps people who have either tested positive for the virus or been exposed and need support. This is a community-based partnership program with additional support from the state government.
Washington also has no travel restrictions in place for travelers. If you are eligible, get vaccinated immediately. Health officials in Washing perform case tracing to prevent or slow down the spread of the virus. If you or anyone you know has been exposed to COVID, please contact your nearest state health facility and they’ll guide you through the process.
COVID-19 Travel Requirements in Washington
The NY government has discontinued the state travel advisory since June 25, 2021. That means people traveling to New York no longer have to submit traveler health forms. The COVID-19 travel requirements for international travelers, however, remain the same.
