While the spread of the novel coronavirus may have slowed in some regions of the country, it has picked up speed in others. More people are getting sick and the number of deaths continues to climb with no end yet in sight. With certain restrictions lifted, many people are eager to get out and have some fun, or some level of normalcy again. Others are nervous and even afraid about venturing outside the home in the midst of the coronavirus and travel for one reason or another. What is it that you should know about traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Event Cancellations due to COVID

The spread of coronavirus has led to the cancellation of many conferences, events, and has forced many people to make changes to their travel plans. Some notable events that have been canceled include the Google News Initiative summit that was set for late April, the IHS Markit’ annual energy conference – CERAWeek 2020, while the 189-nation International Monetary Fund and the World Bank replaced their regular spring meetings in Washington with a “virtual format. These are just a few of the major events that have been canceled because of the coronavirus outbreak and a need to limit the spread of the virus and ensure the preservation of public safety.

How to Travel Safely During COVID-19

With COVID-19 still wreaking havoc, it’s crucial to learn about travel FAQs, safety guidelines, and prevention skills to stay safe as the virus spreads. 

FAQs and Answers

Q. If traveling, how can I minimize my risk of getting sick?

A. Clean hands regularly and thoroughly with water and soap for at least 20 seconds after an outing in a public space, contact with a frequently touched surface or coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose, or travel with and use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. Keep hands away from eyes, nose, and mouth and maintain a physical distance of 6 feet from others. Use drive-throughs and curbside services to limit contact with others

Q. When traveling, should face masks or coverings be worn?

A. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that every individual wears a cloth face covering during travel and when in a public space. This helps to prevent the infected from spreading the coronavirus to other people. 

Q. Does traveling to family and friends increase the risk of me catching and spreading the coronavirus?

A.Yes. Travel increases your risk, so be sure to learn beforehand how COVID-19 is impacting the place you want to travel to. Also, if a family member or friend has an increased risk of contracting a severe illness, your visit could prove dangerous to their health.

Q. Should I avoid international travel at this time?

A.  Yes. All non-essential travel should be avoided due to coronavirus. Travel is unpredictable due to the pandemic, and border closings, mandatory quarantines, overextended healthcare systems with limited access to adequate medical care and ban on noncitizen entry without advance notice are all important things that you have to keep in mind.

Q. Am I at an increased risk for the coronavirus if I travel by air or go on a cruise?

A. Yes. Travel by airplane puts you at an increased risk for COVID-19 because you are in close contact with others and frequently touched surfaces. Furthermore, it’s difficult to maintain and practice social distancing on an airplane when sitting close to other passengers. Delay any planned cruise COVID-19 appears to spread more easily on a cruise ship because people are in close quarters.

If you have further questions please contact a nearby urgent care provider to learn more! You can learn about your risks if you have an underlying medical condition, as well as any vaccines that you may need before traveling. Travel during COVID can be a risky undertaking so stay informed and talk to a medical professional if you have concerns about your health before traveling.