Eric L Martin | Chubby Diaries
Many cities and states around the US are starting to open up after several months on lockdown. While places around the US are seeing spikes in COVID-19 cases, people have been eager to get out of their homes.
CDC director, Dr. Jay Butler, in a telebriefing said, “We know that Americans will be looking forward to reconnecting with family and friends and be able to attend events, and we want that to occur as safely as possible.”
Days following the call, the CDC released new travel guidelines for those seeking to take their travel on the road this summer.
According to the CDC, here’s how you and your family can stay safe:
Anticipate Travel Needs
- Bring enough of your medicine to last you for the entire trip.
- Pack enough alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) and keep it within easy to reach.
- Bring a cloth face covering to wear in public places.
- Prepare food and water for your trip. Pack non-perishable food in case restaurants and stores are closed.
- Take steps to protect yourself from COVID-19 when booking accommodations or planning an overnight stay.
- If you are considering cleaning your travel lodgings, see CDC’s guidance on how to clean and disinfect.
State and Local Travel Restrictions
Follow state and local travel restrictions. For up-to-date information and travel guidance, check the state or local health department where you are, along your route, and at your planned destination. While you are traveling, it is possible a state or local government may put into place travel restrictions, such as stay-at-home or shelter-in-place orders, mandated quarantines upon arrival, or even state border closures. Plan to keep checking for updates as you travel.
Domestic Air Travel
The CDC says, “Air travel requires spending time in security lines and airport terminals, which can bring you in close contact with other people and frequently touched surfaces. Most viruses and other germs do not spread easily on flights because of how air circulates and is filtered on airplanes. However, social distancing is difficult on crowded flights, and you may have to sit near others (within 6 feet), sometimes for hours. This may increase your risk for exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19.”
The CDC also says that those who are traveling outside of their home need to maintain basic practices. Using face coverings, having hand sanitizer, tissues, washing your hands, and maintaining a 6 feet distance will help limit a persons exposure.
Visit CDC.org for more information on travel and other guidelines to keep you and and your family safe.
Eric L. Martin Chubby Diaries Travel Analyst. He writes on the latest Travel News and much more.
