Updated CDC COVID-19 Guidelines for Travelers in the US
As plans are made for how to spend New Year’s Eve, the US has cut isolation requirements for those infected by COVID-19 from 10 days to five, and shortened the time that close contacts should quarantine.
The American CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) made the announcement as thousands of flights and holiday plans were canceled due to those impacted by the virus being forced to isolate.
The CDC’s New Recommendations: Isolation for Five Days
The new recommendations from the CDC state that a person infected with COVID-19 should go into isolation for five days. At the end of that period, if they have recovered, they can resume their activities; however, a mask must be worn indoors and outdoors for an additional five days. If symptoms persist after five days, individuals need to continue to isolate until they feel better and must wear a mask for five days after their symptoms have resolved.
Quarantine Guidelines for Close Contacts
Prior to the recent CDC announcement, individuals who had received two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine were exempt from quarantine if they were close contacts of someone who tested positive. However, under the new guidelines, only those who have received a booster vaccine shot can skip quarantine. They must wear a mask in both indoor and outdoor settings for 10 days following exposure.
CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky emphasized, “CDC’s updated recommendations for isolation and quarantine balance what we know about the spread of the virus and the protection provided by vaccination and booster doses. These updates ensure people can safely continue their daily lives. Prevention is our best option: get vaccinated, get boosted, wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial and high community transmission, and take a test before you gather.”
Testing Requirements for Travelers
With the emergence of the Omicron variant, the US introduced more rigorous testing requirements for tourists and returning Americans. All travelers aged over two years, regardless of vaccination status or nationality, entering the US must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of travel. Proof from a licensed health care provider of recovery from COVID-19 in the 90 days before travel is also accepted.
Understanding ‘Fully Vaccinated’ for Entry to the US
Currently, individuals must have received their vaccine at least two weeks (14 days) prior to entering the United States. This applies to both single-dose and second doses of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine. As of now, there is no requirement for a booster vaccine to gain entry to the US. Moreover, masking requirements remain in place for airplanes, rail travel, and public transportation until further notice.
For ongoing updates on COVID-19 and travel-related information, it is advisable to consult both governmental resources and health organizations.
This article was first published on Dec 1, 2021, and updated on Dec 28, 2021.
