CDC Issues New Guidelines for Vaccinated Travelers

Ahead of Easter weekend, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a new set of guidelines for fully vaccinated persons wishing to travel domestically within the United States. In light of recent studies highlighting the vaccine’s effectiveness in a real-world setting, the CDC concludes that fully vaccinated individuals can travel within the country at a low risk to themselves and others.

New recommendations state that fully vaccinated travelers can move about within the United States without the need for COVID-19 testing or self-quarantine: either before or after travel. It is still heavily advised to adhere to COVID precautions while traveling, however. Wearing a mask, avoiding crowds, socially distancing and practicing good personal hygiene will protect yourself and others from the threat of COVID variants and other harmful germs.

During an official press release regarding the new guidelines, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky issued the following statement:

“With millions of Americans getting vaccinated every day, it is important to update the public on the latest science about what fully vaccinated people can do safely, now including guidance on safe travel. We continue to encourage every American to get vaccinated as soon as it is their turn, so we can begin to safely take steps back to our everyday lives. Vaccines can help us return to the things we love about life, so we encourage every American to get vaccinated as soon as they have the opportunity.”

In addition, the CDC has provided official guidelines for fully vaccinated international travelers, allowing for international travel without undergoing a COVID test or self-quarantine–unless required by an international jurisdiction.

These new guidelines pertain to fully vaccinated travelers only. The new statements do not change the CDC’s pre-existing regulations for those who are not fully vaccinated. Unvaccinated travelers should continue to undergo COVID testing 1-3 days prior to domestic travel, and again within 3-5 days of returning home. Unvaccinated travelers should also self-quarantine at home for a week to 10 days after returning home. The CDC strongly discourages non-essential travel by those who are not yet fully vaccinated.

To browse your local vaccine distribution centers or to set up your own appointment, please visit planyourvaccine.com .