travel after covid

• COVID-19 travel advice

Lower your risk of COVID-19 as you travel for a safe and fun adventure.

Successful travel starts with being prepared for the unexpected. Coronavirus disease 2019, known as COVID-19, is now a part of standard travel planning.

As you choose a destination, travel group or event, add COVID-19 to the list of things to research. When packing for yourself or anyone you're caring for on the trip, consider COVID-19 prevention and testing.

No one wants to plan for the worst. But having a plan in case you catch the COVID-19 virus while traveling can save time if you need medical care.

To start, it can help to ask these basic questions as you make plans.

Am I up to date with my COVID-19 vaccine?

Staying up to date on your COVID-19 vaccine helps prevent serious illness, the need for hospital care and death due to COVID-19 .

If you need a vaccine, plan to get it at least a few weeks before you travel. Protection from the vaccine isn't immediate.

Am I, a travel companion or a person I live with at high risk of serious COVID-19 illness?

Many people with COVID-19 have no symptoms or mild illness. But for older adults and people of any age with certain medical conditions, COVID-19 can lead to the need for care in the hospital or death.

If you or those around you are at high risk of serious COVID-19 illness, take extra safety measures during or after travel.

Ask a healthcare professional if there are any specific actions you should take.

Does my destination, tour group or event need proof that I had a COVID-19 vaccine? Do I need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test?

The country you travel to may not need to know your COVID-19 status. But you might need the information for other reasons.

Events, venues or tour groups might require proof that you are COVID-19 negative or are up to date on a COVID-19 vaccine. Check before you go so you have all the paperwork you need.

What's the plan if I get COVID-19 on my trip?

No one wants to get sick while traveling. But in case you do, it helps to know where you can get medical care and whether you'll be able to stay apart from others while you have symptoms.

Put together a COVID-19 kit with rapid home tests, masks, a thermometer, disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Before you leave, gather health information from your healthcare professional. Make sure it gives the details on any health conditions you're managing and medicine you take.

COVID-19 spread during travel

The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person. When the virus is spreading, spending time indoors with a crowd of people raises your risk of catching it. The risk is higher if the indoor space has poor airflow.

The coronavirus is carried by a person's breath.

The virus spreads when a person with COVID-19 breathes, coughs, sneezes, sings or talks. The droplets or particles the infected person breathes out could possibly be breathed in by other people if they are close together or in areas with low airflow.

The virus carried by a person's breath can land directly on the face of a nearby person, after a sneeze or cough, for example. And people may touch a surface that has respiratory droplets and then touch their faces with hands that have the coronavirus on them.

Clean hands

While you travel, one way to lower your risk of COVID-19 is to clean your hands often.

Wash your hands after using the bathroom, before making food or eating, and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If you touch something that others regularly touch, such as an elevator button or a handrail, make sure to clean your hands afterward.

Also, try to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Wearing a face mask is another way to lower your risk of COVID-19 .

Travel brings people together from areas where viruses may be spreading at higher levels. Masks can help slow the spread of respiratory viruses in general, including the COVID-19 virus.

Masks help the most in places with low airflow and where you are in close contact with other people. Also, masks can help if viruses are spreading at high levels in the places you travel to or through.

Masking is especially important if you or a companion have a high risk of serious COVID-19 illness. Choose the most protective mask that fits well and is comfortable.

Get the COVID-19 vaccine

As the virus that causes COVID-19 changes, COVID-19 vaccines are updated, so stay up to date with the recommended shots.

Know when the COVID-19 virus is spreading in your area

Check with health agencies in the area to see where the COVID-19 virus is spreading. Information about the spread of the virus may include the number of people in the hospital with COVID-19 or the number of people who test positive for the disease.

Keep some space around you

Choose outdoor activities and keep some distance between yourself and others. Poor airflow plus lots of people crowded together equals a higher chance you'll come in contact with the virus that causes COVID-19 .

If you can, try to avoid spending time with people who have COVID-19 symptoms or who are sick.

There will likely be times during travel when you don't have a choice about how close you are to others. Here are some tips for air travel, public transportation and lodging.

The risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from air travel is thought to be low.

Air in the plane's cabin changes over quickly during the flight, being replaced every few minutes in some planes. Airplane air also is often filtered. So germs, including viruses, are trapped before they spread.

The air flowing down from vents above the seats in each row may help keep germs from spreading. Seats also may act as a barrier to germ spread on a plane, unless the person who is ill is sitting close to you.

You can help lower your risk by spreading out to keep distance between you and others when you can and cleaning your hands regularly.

Wearing a mask in crowded areas, such as security lines and bathrooms, can help protect you from COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.

Trains, buses and cars

Trains and buses may have good airflow and air filtering. But check before you travel so you know what to expect. When a vehicle is crowded, wear a face mask and take other steps, such as cleaning your hands.

Taxis and private cars used for ride-sharing may not have air filtering. But in most cases, rolling down a window could be an option to improve airflow.

Rental car companies may post their cleaning policies on the internet, or you can ask directly when you book the vehicle.

Hotels and other lodging

Cleaning protocols at hotels, vacation rentals and other lodging have largely returned to the way they were before the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have questions about how hosts or businesses protect guests, contact them directly. In public areas of hotels, take steps to lower your risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 .

Put safety first

Despite your planning, an illness may delay or cancel your trip. Stay home if you or anyone you're traveling with has:

• Symptoms of COVID-19 , such as fever or new loss of taste or smell.
• Taken a COVID-19 test and is waiting for results.
• Been diagnosed with COVID-19 .

Keep watch for serious symptoms of COVID-19 , such as trouble breathing or chest pain. If you or a person you're taking care of has symptoms that worry you, get help.

Once the fever is gone and symptoms are getting better, you may choose to travel. But for about five days after feeling better, you could still give others the virus that causes COVID-19 . Take extra actions to protect the people around you.

• Wear a mask.
• Keep your distance from others, especially when indoors.
• Clean your hands regularly.
• Keep the air flowing by turning on fans or opening windows when you can.

If you start to feel worse or your fever comes back, avoid being around others again until you feel better.

Stay flexible

With COVID-19 vaccinations, testing and treatment, events and travel are back to typical levels in many places. But as waves of COVID-19 outbreaks happen, it's important to stay flexible with your plans. Knowing whether the COVID-19 virus is spreading in your area or in places where you're traveling can help you make decisions about whether to go and what to put on your agenda.

• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Understanding how COVID-19 vaccines work. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/how-they-work.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• People with certain medical conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Travel advice for the general public. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers-hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-travel-advice-for-the-general-public. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/infections-diseases/covid-19. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obtaining health care abroad. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/health-care-abroad/health-care-abroad. Accessed May 15, 2024.
• Goldman L, et al., eds. COVID-19: Epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, community prevention, and prognosis. In: Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Elsevier; 2024. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 16, 202.
• Taking steps for cleaner air for respiratory virus prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/air-quality.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How COVID-19 spreads. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-covid-spreads.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• COVID-19 overview and infection prevention and control priorities in non-U.S. healthcare settings. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/non-us-settings/overview/index.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Hygiene and respiratory viruses prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/hygiene.html. Accessed May 14, 2024.
• About handwashing. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Masking during travel. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/masks. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Masks and respiratory virus prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/masks.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How to protect yourself and others. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• About physical distancing and respiratory viruses. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/physical-distancing.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• How can ventilation reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 on airplanes? World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers-hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-travel-advice-for-the-general-public. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Bielecki M, et al. Air travel and COVID-19 prevention in the pandemic and peri-pandemic period: A narrative review. Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease. 2021; doi:10.1016/j.tmaid.2020.101915.
• Symptoms of COVID-19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.
• Preventing spread of respiratory viruses when you're sick. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/precautions-when-sick.html. Accessed May 16, 2024.

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How soon can you travel after testing positive for COVID-19?

A positive COVID-19 test during a trip can throw all your travel plans into limbo . But even a positive test in the weeks before you travel can be cause for concern.

If you're wondering when you'll be cleared to travel again after testing positive for COVID-19 , it's an important question: Here's everything you need to know.

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What are the rules on flying back to the US?

If you've traveled internationally in the past year, you're likely familiar with the rules to fly back to the United States, but they've changed several times .

All travelers coming to the U.S., vaccinated or not, must produce a negative COVID-19 test taken within one calendar day of their departure. (The previous policy allowed vaccinated international travelers to show a negative test taken within three days before departure.) Additionally, international foreign travelers can enter the U.S. with proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test .

If you have a positive test, does that mean you're banned from flying back to the U.S.? Not quite — but the rules can be a little confusing even if you're a seasoned traveler. If you recently had COVID-19 but recovered from the virus, you can still travel back to the U.S., but you'll need the proper paperwork. Let's break it down.

What paperwork do I need to travel after testing positive?

People who recovered from COVID-19 may continue to test positive for the virus up to three months after infection, even after they've recovered.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, travelers who recently recovered from COVID-19 can fly back to the U.S. with proof that they've recovered from COVID-19 instead of a negative test. This proof can include your positive COVID-19 viral test result, but it has to be taken no more than 90 days before your flight's departure from a foreign country.

Additionally, you will also need a signed letter from a licensed healthcare professional stating that you're cleared to travel back to the U.S. According to the CDC, the letter from a healthcare provider must include:

• Information that identifies you personally (such as your name and date of birth) and matches your passport.
• The letter must be signed and dated by the healthcare provider.
• The letter must be on official letterhead that contains the name, address and phone number of the healthcare provider or public health official who signed the letter.

The CDC says the positive test result and letter together are referred to as "documentation of recovery." If you tested positive, that's the only way to be able to fly back to the U.S. if you've recovered from the virus but don't have a negative test result.

Proof of recovery is also acceptable for certain destinations, so you may be able to use this documentation to travel abroad after you're cleared by a doctor to travel.

What if I can't show proof of recovery?

The CDC is pretty strict on this rule: You either need a negative COVID-19 test or proof of recovery. The agency says, "If you have recovered from COVID-19 but are not able to obtain documentation of recovery that fulfills the requirements, you will need to show a negative COVID-19 viral test result from a sample taken no more than one day before your flight to the US departs."

How soon can I leave my destination after a positive COVID-19 test?

Travelers have to consider the possibility of testing positive for COVID-19 while abroad. What happens after the positive test depends entirely on the destination and, in some cases, your vaccination and booster status.

For instance, if you test positive while in France , you'll have to quarantine for seven days if you're fully vaccinated with a booster dose. However, you can leave quarantine after five days with a negative antigen or RT-PCR test result and if you've had no symptoms in 48 hours. If you are not fully vaccinated (France will soon require travelers to have a booster to be considered fully vaccinated ) or not vaccinated and test positive, you must isolate for 10 days, though the quarantine can be shortened.

So if you have international travel planned, you'll need to read up on the rules around how long you'll have to stay in quarantine and the documentation you'll need for your flight back to the U.S.

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COVID-19 international travel advisories

Visitors to the U.S. do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check Department of State travel advisories for the country you will visit.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

You do not need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or take a COVID-19 test to enter the U.S. This applies to U.S. citizens and non-citizens.

U.S. citizens traveling to a country outside the U.S.

Find country-specific travel advisories, including COVID-19 restrictions, from the Department of State.

See the CDC's COVID-19 guidance for safer international travel to learn:

• If you can travel if you recently had COVID-19
• What you can do to help prevent COVID-19 

LAST UPDATED: May 31, 2024

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Coronavirus Updates

The u.s. lifts the pandemic travel ban and opens the doors to international visitors.

The Associated Press

Passengers walk through Salt Lake City International Airport, Oct. 27, 2020. More than a year and a half after COVID-19 concerns prompted the U.S. to close its borders to international travelers from countries including Brazil, China, India, South Africa, the U.K. and much of Europe, restrictions are shifting to focus on vaccine status. Rick Bowmer/AP hide caption

Passengers walk through Salt Lake City International Airport, Oct. 27, 2020. More than a year and a half after COVID-19 concerns prompted the U.S. to close its borders to international travelers from countries including Brazil, China, India, South Africa, the U.K. and much of Europe, restrictions are shifting to focus on vaccine status.

The U.S. lifted restrictions Monday on travel from a long list of countries including Mexico, Canada and most of Europe, allowing tourists to make long-delayed trips and family members to reconnect with loved ones after more than a year and a half apart because of the pandemic.

Starting Monday, the U.S. is accepting fully vaccinated travelers at airports and land borders, doing away with a COVID-19 restriction that dates back to the Trump administration. The new rules allow air travel from previously restricted countries as long as the traveler has proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test. Land travel from Mexico and Canada will require proof of vaccination but no test.

Airlines are expecting more travelers from Europe and elsewhere. Data from travel and analytics firm Cirium showed airlines are increasing flights between the United Kingdom and the U.S. by 21% this month over last month.

The change will have a profound effect on the borders with Mexico and Canada, where traveling back and forth was a way of life until the pandemic hit and the U.S. shut down nonessential travel.

Malls, restaurants and Main Street shops in U.S. border towns have been devastated by the lack of visitors from Mexico. On the boundary with Canada, cross-border hockey rivalries were community traditions until being upended by the pandemic. Churches that had members on both sides of the border are hoping to welcome parishioners they haven't seen during COVID-19 shutdown.

Loved ones have missed holidays, birthdays and funerals while nonessential air travel was barred, and they are now eager to reconnect.

River Robinson's American partner wasn't able to be in Canada for the birth of their baby boy 17 months ago because of pandemic-related border closures. She was thrilled to hear the U.S. is reopening its land crossings to vaccinated travelers.

"I'm planning to take my baby down for the American Thanksgiving," said Robinson, who lives in St. Thomas, Ontario. "If all goes smoothly at the border I'll plan on taking him down as much as I can. Is crazy to think he has a whole other side of the family he hasn't even met yet."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. will accept travelers who have been fully vaccinated with any of the vaccines approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization, not just those in use in the U.S. That means that the AstraZeneca vaccine, widely used in Canada, will be accepted.

For air travelers, the airlines are required to verify vaccine records and match them against ID, and if they don't, they could face fines of up to nearly $35,000 per violation. Airlines will also collect information about passengers for contact tracing efforts. There will be CDC workers spot-checking travelers for compliance in the U.S. At land borders, Customs and Border Protection agents will check vaccine proof.

The moves come as the U.S. has seen its COVID-19 outlook improve dramatically in recent weeks since the summer delta surge that pushed hospitals to the brink in many locations.

clock This article was published more than  2 years ago

What 4 health experts say about travel after covid-19 recovery

You’ve recovered from the omicron variant. Can you travel like it’s 2019?

When I got the coronavirus in January, I spent the better part of two weeks in bed, too tired to do much. As I recovered slowly, a thought kept churning in my head as I considered my future immunity: “What does this mean for travel?”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises people not to “travel until a full 10 days after your symptoms started or the date your positive test was taken if you had no symptoms.” In the 90 days after you’ve fully recovered and meet criteria to end isolation, the CDC says , you can travel safely. If you’re not fully vaccinated, delay travel until you are, or incorporate testing into your trip plans if you must travel.

But health experts said life after infection comes with caveats, especially as we learn more about omicron. Here’s what four experts advise.

6 questions about travel after recovering from covid, answered

‘There’s a wide range of behaviors that are acceptable’

Céline Gounder, an infectious-disease expert at New York University and a member of President Biden’s covid-19 transition task force, says based on the rate she has seen antibodies decline after infection, “you probably do have at least a couple of months of some kind of protection against both infection and disease.”

The protection doesn’t work like a switch, and it depends on whether a person has had the coronavirus before and whether they are vaccinated.

“It’s sort of this steady decline,” Gounder says. “Somewhere between three and six months, you certainly would be at risk for reinfection.”

How you approach travel after a coronavirus infection will depend on your demographic and risk factors. While travel will never be 100 percent safe, “I think as long as you’re not putting others in danger, and you’re not being reckless to the point of really adding to the burden on health-care systems … there’s a wide range of behaviors that are acceptable,” Gounder says.

She finds trips where you can spend most time outdoors to be the least risky, including going camping and visiting destinations where you can eat outside at restaurants. If you are flying anywhere, Gounder recommends wearing an N95 mask, like the 3M Aura one (“They’re actually pretty comfortable,” she says) and keeping it on as much as possible from the time you leave your house to the time you arrive at your final destination.

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‘We’re never going to go back to the way it was’

People should remain vigilant about coronavirus mitigation efforts, even if they’ve recently had it, says Brian C. Castrucci, the president and chief executive of de Beaumont Foundation, a public health charity.

For vaccinated and boosted travelers who have had omicron, “you probably do have immunity, but we don’t know for how long,” Castrucci says. “The immunity is not going to be enduring, and it’s still possible to get a severe infection that has ongoing symptoms.”

Just as there are still safety protocols in place at airports following the 9/11 attacks, we can expect coronavirus protocols to stay put, Castrucci says.

“We’re never going to go back to the way it was,” he says. “Even if this becomes endemic, it’s going to then indelibly change how we go about our lives.”

Castrucci says what that looks like for travelers going forward is wearing a well-fitting mask in public places, knowing the vaccination and case rate of the place you’re visiting, taking a coronavirus test before you leave, and packing rapid tests in case you feel sick on the road.

What to know about cruise travel while omicron spreads

‘Natural infection wanes a lot faster than vaccination’

If you’re vaccinated, boosted and recently recovered from the coronavirus, “your chances of having a serious reinfection are not very high,” says Karl E. Minges, the interim dean of the University of New Haven’s School of Health Sciences in Connecticut.

However, “you’re not protected forever,” Minges says. “Natural infection wanes a lot faster than vaccination. So if you have been infected by omicron and you’re unvaccinated, do get vaccinated.”

Recovering from infection “doesn’t change the calculus about what activities are safer as compared to others,” Minges says, encouraging recovered people to follow the same precautions they would before. For example, take a rapid test before doing something on the upper level of your risk tolerance, like traveling.

‘We saw many people infected with delta who got reinfected with omicron’

Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist and executive director of the covid-19 task force at Piedmont Healthcare, does not want recently recovered travelers to have a false sense of security, because the future of mutating variants is impossible to predict.

“You should still exercise caution because you still have the ability to be reinfected with new variants that could come about,” Morgan says. “We saw many people infected with delta who got reinfected with omicron.”

While Morgan says 90 days is usually how long immunity lasts before it starts to drop, there is inconsistency with how it drops. With much unknown about the omicron variant, it is unclear how long natural immunity lasts and whether it will be effective in protecting against future variants.

Beyond keeping up with covid-cautious behavior as a social responsibility to vulnerable people around you, Morgan says not to let up your defense because of the state of the pandemic.

“We are still in the middle of a pandemic with exceptionally high numbers,” she says. “We are in a worse situation with [case] numbers now than we were with our first three surges.”

That doesn’t mean you can’t take a vacation. Morgan says she advocates for trips with outdoor activities, which she recognizes may be difficult, but not impossible, to pull off in cold winter weather.

“This is a great time to take a ski trip and be outdoors,” she says.

Coronavirus: What you need to know

Summer covid uptick: If you’re hearing about more people testing positive or getting sick, it’s no surprise, because data shows another covid wave forming . Nearly two-thirds of infections are caused by KP variants dubbed FLiRT , according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as of June 22.

Combined covid-flu vaccine: A combined coronavirus-influenza vaccine may be on the horizon after Moderna’s shot produced a higher immune response in older adults than separate vaccines for those viruses administered together. Moderna officials say the earliest that the combined vaccine could hit the market is fall 2025, pending regulatory approval.

Covid isolation guidelines: Americans who test positive for the coronavirus no longer need to routinely stay home from work and school for five days under new guidance planned by the CDC. The change has raised concerns among medically vulnerable people .

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With the decline in air travel from the pandemic, the classic road trip has become more popular in America.

Here are 8 ways travel will change after the pandemic

What will travel look like in the future? We asked the experts.

With coronavirus cases continuing to spike in America and abroad, travelers with a United States passport remain grounded. To date, just nine countries are open to Americans without restrictions. If Belarus, Serbia , Zambia or any of the other six countries on that list aren’t in the cards, then travelers itching to get on an international flight will have to wait.

How long is still unknown. Elizabeth Becker, author of Overbooked: The Exploding Business of Travel and Tourism , notes that the pandemic “ decimated ” the $8 trillion global travel industry overnight. “Those essential pillars of 21st-century global travel—open borders, open destinations, and visa-free travel—won’t return in the short term or even medium term,” she says.

What does that mean for the future of travel? Despite the turbulence, experts are seeing blue skies. Bruce Poon Tip, author of Unlearn: The Year the Earth Stood Still and the founder of travel company G Adventures , says not only will we travel again, we’ll do it better. “I still believe travel can be the biggest distributor of wealth the world has ever seen,” he says. “This pause gives us the gift of time to consider how we can travel more consciously.”

From a renewed commitment to sustainable tourism to creative ways to globetrot from home, here’s how travel authors, bloggers, and podcasters are navigating.

( Related: These 25 destinations inspire future journeys and remind us why we love to travel .)

Sustainability will be a driving force

Tourists crowd St. ​Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy, in 2013. In the wake of the pandemic, experts predict there will be more interest in visiting less-crowded places.

One silver lining of the pandemic? Consumers are doubling down on sustainability . Becker predicts travelers will take on the role of “concerned citizens” demanding responsible travel policies. The industry will respond with active measures to prioritize a healthy world over profit margins. “Don’t be surprised if countries mandate ‘fly-free days’ and other measures to control climate change,” she says.

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Take action: Reduce your carbon footprint by purchasing offsets with companies such as Cool Effect and by staying at certified green hotels. Check sites like Book Different , which rates accommodations for eco-friendliness.

( Related: Here’s how Greece is rethinking its once bustling tourism industry .)

Our journeys will become more inclusive

The Black Lives Matter movement has brought the issue of representation to light in all industries, including travel. That’s overdue, says Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon . The award-winning journalist and TV host says she hopes the industry is moving toward meaningful change but worries that any change may be short-lived. “When the pandemic is past and the hashtags are no longer trending, will industry gatekeepers still be eager to attract, cater to, and celebrate travelers of color?” she writes in an email. “I’m cautiously optimistic but not completely convinced.”

Black Travel Alliance ’s Martinique Lewis feels the industry is moving in the right direction and remains hopeful. She notes that companies are addressing the needs of diverse customers and says it’s about time. “For the first time they are considering what a trans female goes through not only when choosing what bathroom to go in at a restaurant, but when she checks into a hotel and her license shows a different person,” says Lewis. “Now plus-size travelers wanting to surf and scuba but can’t because the lack of wetsuits in their size are being acknowledged. Now blind travelers who still want to experience tours and extreme sports while on holiday are thought of.”

Take action: Visit one of the nearly 200 living history museums in the U.S., where historic interpreters portray figures from the past. They shed light on painful issues (such as racism in America) and hidden narratives (such as those of people of color, whose stories have been suppressed).

Small communities will play a bigger role

Travelers can make a difference in small towns that were already struggling economically before the pandemic. Caz Makepeace of Y Travel Blog says she and her family have always traveled slowly to lesser-known areas, “rather than racing through destinations.” Now she’s supporting these places by patronizing local businesses and donating to nonprofits.

Kate Newman of Travel for Difference suggests travelers focus on “ global south ” or developing countries that depend on tourism. “We need to diversify our locations to avoid mass tourism and focus on the places that really need it,” she says. “Seeing so many communities suffer during COVID-19 has brought [this issue] to light.”

Take action: Turn to sustainable tourism educational and advocacy nonprofit Impact Travel Alliance to learn how to empower locals and protect the environment.

We’ll seek quality over quantity

High-mileage travelers are putting more thought into their bucket lists. “COVID-19 has allowed me to rethink how and why I travel,” says Erick Prince of The Minority Nomad . “It’s given me the freedom to explore travel projects for passion instead of the paycheck.” Rather than focusing on paid gigs, the blogger, who lives in Thailand, says he’ll be embarking on a self-funded project to highlight off-the-beaten-track provinces in his adopted country.

Eulanda Osagiede, of Hey Dip Your Toes In , is putting the breaks on international trips, citing travel as a privilege many take for granted. “Privilege comes in many forms, and the act of recognizing our travel-related ones have called us to think about traveling more intentionally and less often—if ever the world begins to look similar to its pre-pandemic days.”

Take action: Check the Transformational Travel Council for resources and recommendations on operators who can help organize meaningful journeys.

The road trip will kick into high gear

For many, road trips may be the only feasible option for travel right now, and frequent fliers like Gabby Beckford of Packs Light are revving up. Driving across state lines can be just as exciting as flying across international borders; it’s about the mindset. “Road-tripping has shown me that the core of travel—curiosity, exposure to newness, and wonder—[is] a perspective, not a destination,” she says.

Take action : Plan a coronavirus-conscious trip to Colorado, home to superlative stargazing sites —and what may become the world’s largest Dark Sky reserve.

Some high-mileage travelers say they plan to focus on meaningful experiences at out-of-the-way areas, like Chimney Tops in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

( Related: Check out these eight epic drives across America .)

Travel advisors will become essential

Conde Nast Traveller sustainability editor Juliet Kinsman predicts a shift to booking travel through agents and established operators, noting their invaluable knowledge and industry connections. “I think what 2020 has shown and taught us is the expertise and financial protection of booking through a travel agent often outweighs the amount you pay in commission,” she says. Additionally, she hopes that consumers will look to agents who specialize in the environment. “Those who care about where they send their customers can intuitively cut through greenwash and really ensure every link in the supply chain is an honorable one,” she says.

Related: Amazing architecture you can see from your car window

Take action: Find a travel advisor : The American Society of Travel Advisors maintains a database that allows travelers to search by destination, type of journey (such as eco-tourism or genealogy), and cohort (such as LGBTQ+ travelers). Virtuoso , a network of advisors specializing in luxury travel, can help with good deals, convenient itineraries, and tailored experiences.

We’ll appreciate staying closer to home

Some are discovering the benefits of travel even at home. Blogger Jessie Festa of Epicure & Culture and Jessie on a Journey normally travels internationally once a month. These days, online cultural cooking classes, games, and virtual experiences are helping her “to keep the spirit of travel alive by considering the feelings that travel elicits,” she says. Exchanging postcards with her extended travel community is another “beautiful way to ‘experience’ travel again, safely,” she adds.

“When we compare everything to being locked up indefinitely in our respective towers, a walk to the park can feel like travel,” says blogger Chris Mitchell of Traveling Mitch . “Now people are willing to see the magic in a meal on a patio at a restaurant down the street.”

Take action: Get outside, says the Norwegian concept “ friluftsliv ,” an idea of outdoor living that promises to make the pandemic’s colder months more bearable.

( Related: Here’s why walking is the ideal pandemic activity .)

Planning trips will become joyful again

Although some people are making the best of being grounded, this difficult period is reminding them that travel is important for boosting mental health and personal growth. There’s research to back it up. A 2013 survey of 483 U.S. adults found that travel improves empathy, energy, attention, and focus. Planning a trip is just as effective—a 2014 Cornell study showed that looking forward to travel substantially increases happiness, more than anticipating buying material goods.

Joanna Penn can attest to the healing benefits of both. The U.K.-based author and podcaster behind The Creative Penn and Books and Travel normally travels to research her books. “For me my writing life is all about what I learned when I travel,” she said in a recent podcast, “the ideas that come from being someplace new.” Her future trips will include walking the Camino de Santiago in 2022. Studying maps and determining a route makes her feel like she’s working toward a real goal. “I can expand my comfort zone without too much stress, especially if I accept that things might get canceled,” she said.

Take action: Plan a trip now, with inspiration from this essay on why travel should be considered an essential human activity.

Related Topics

• CORONAVIRUS
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• MENTAL HEALTH
• VOLUNTOURISM

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Guide to State Quarantine Rules for Travelers

Covid-19 restrictions are lifting across the country as the pace of vaccinations quickens.

Christina Ianzito,

 | To keep the  coronavirus outbreak from spreading through their boundaries, many states have asked or required out-of-state visitors to self-quarantine upon arrival. Those restrictions are easing; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) now says that people who are fully vaccinated (two weeks after receiving the second dose of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine, or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) can safely resume travel within the U.S. They are no longer required to quarantine after being exposed to someone with COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the number of Americans vaccinated has been rising quickly in recent weeks: half of all U.S. adults had received at least one dose by April 18, including about 81 percent of people 65 and up, according to the CDC. But states are responding differently to the changing pandemic situation when it comes to their quarantine policies for travelers (see state-specific rules below).

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Maryland, Ohio, Washington, New York and Connecticut, for example, have lifted their quarantine requirements for domestic travel (many states still have rules for international travelers); they instead ask visitors and residents to follow CDC travel guidance. Alaska no longer threatens fines of up to $25,000 for those who don’t follow its COVID-19 rules (including arriving with proof of a negative COVID-19 test), which are now framed as strong recommendations rather than requirements.

Massachusetts and Oregon are are among the states that still have quarantine rules, but are now exempting those who have been fully vaccinated.

Some states base their rules on where a traveler is arriving from, but their determinations of whether other states are “high risk” can be wildly different, depending on their criteria. For example, the District of Columbia currently considers 12 states to be high risk, while Rhode Island considers more than 20 states to be in that category. Confusing matters further: A city might have its own quarantine rules, separate from its state’s. Chicago, for instance, has strict quarantine rules for travelers but Illinois does not.

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“There is no uniform message across the states, and that’s extremely difficult for travelers,” says Jan L. Jones, professor of hospitality and tourism at the University of New Haven in Connecticut. “I can’t even navigate it.”

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Who can go where?

Cdc guidance.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that people who are fully vaccinated can “safely travel within the U.S.” After travel they should watch for symptoms of COVID-19, and follow state and local requirements. Other guidance:

• Everyone (including those who are fully vaccinated) should continue to wear masks in public and follow other infection prevention measures, such as frequent hand-washing social distancing.
• Delay internatonal travel until you are fully vaccinated, then consult the CDC’s recommendations by country and check the current COVID-19 situation in your destination.
• Everyone (including those who are fully vaccinated) needs to be tested before returning to the U.S. from another country, and should get tested for COVID-19 3-5 days after returning from international travel. Unvaccinated people should self-quarantine for 7 days with a negative test and for 10 days if they don’t get tested (those who are fully vaccinated do not need to self-quarantine with a negative test).
• Unvaccinated travelers should also get tested 3-5 days after returning from domestic travel, then self-quarantine for 7 days with a negative test and for 10 days if they don’t get tested.

Here is a guide for those destinations that require, request or suggest certain visitors to quarantine. Unless otherwise stated, the quarantine rules noted below require isolation for 14 days or the duration of the stay — whichever is shorter. States that offer the option of submitting a negative COVID-19 test typically require it to have been taken within 72 hours of the visitor’s arrival in the state. There are often exceptions for essential workers; check each state’s official website for details.

(Note: For a full list of states’ coronavirus-related regulations, including rules for facial coverings, see AARP's guide )

• Alaska :  The state recently eased its restrictions. Nonresidents and residents entering the state still must fill out a traveler declaration form on the  Alaska Travel Portal  that lists where they’ve traveled in the previous two weeks, and are asked to submit proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure (bring a printed copy to have on hand when you land). Vaccinated travelers should get tested for COVID-19 but do not need to follow strict social distancing while they are awaiting test results. Gov. Mike Dunleavy has just announced that starting June 1 any tourist arriving at a major airport in the state will be able to receive a vaccination free of charge. Questions related to upcoming travel and testing/quarantine guidance for coming into Alaska can be sent to:  [email protected]  or contact (907) 646-3322. Penalties: Fine of up to $25,000
• California: The California Department of Public Health asks residents to avoid nonessential travel until they are fully vaccinated, and then to follow CDC guidance. Those who are unvaccinated who must travel should get tested 1-3 days before travel, and 3-5 days after travel. After travel, they should self-quarantine for 7 days, even if their tests are negative. Those who don’t get tested, should self-quarantine for 10 days. Non-essential travelers from other states or countries for tourism or recreation are strongly discouraged from entering California. Those who do, including returning California residents, are asked to quarantine, as detailed above. Penalties:  None
• District of Columbia : Washington, D.C., has loosened many of its restrictions, but still requires anyone (resident or visitor) traveling for nonessential purposes from certain high-risk states where the “seven-day moving average daily new COVID-19 case rate is 10 or more per 100,000 persons” to have been tested for COVID-19 (and received a negative result) within 72 hours of arrival, then be tested again three to five days after arrival in the city (Virginia and Maryland are exempt). The alternative is to limit activities and self-monitor for 10 days or the length of their stay. Those who have been fully vaccinated, and are within 90 days of their last dose, are exempt from testing and quarantine requirements. Penalties : Include potential fines (amount not specified) or summary suspension or revocation of licenses
• Hawaii : All travelers (residents and visitors alike) need to have proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their arrival in Hawaii. They should upload it when registering online through the Safe Travels system, which will generate a QR code that can be scanned at the airport (a paper copy is recommended as a backup). Anyone arriving without a negative test — even those who’ve been vaccinated for COVID-19 — must quarantine for 10 days (or the duration of their trip), “without exception.” Note that it must be an FDA-approved nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) from a trusted testing site. There are inter-island quarantine requirements that are explained on the state’s website. Islands such as  Kauai and Maui have their own requirements; check their sites for details. Penalties:  Violating the order is a criminal offense and subject to up to a $5,000 fine and/or a year’s imprisonment.
• Illinois :  There are no statewide quarantine orders.  Chicago has its own 10-day quarantine mandate  for anyone arriving from one of the many states it considers high-risk, included on its Orange list (a colored map is kept on the city’s website). Visitors from those states can offer proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival as an alternative to quarantine. The city allows an exemption for those who have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to arrival. Penalties: Violators in Chicago are subject to fines of $100 to $500 per day, up to $7,000.
• Kansas :  Kansans must quarantine for 14 days if they have traveled on or after April 8 to Connecticut or Pennsylvania; on or after March 12 to New Jersey or New York; or on or after March 26 to Delaware, Michigan or Rhode Island; or have “attended/traveled to mass gathering events out-of-state of 500 people or greater where individuals do not socially distance (6 feet) and wear masks.” (There are also requirements for residents returning from cruising and international travel.) Those in quarantine should monitor symptoms and “should not attend school, work or any other setting where they are not able to maintain about a 6-foot distance from other people.” They can shorten their quarantine by taking a COVID-19 test on day 6; if the test is negative, they can be removed from quarantine on day 8, following CDC guidance . The state exempts those who have been fully vaccinated at least two weeks before arrival. Penalties:  Violating the order is a Class C misdemeanor, with fines from $25 to $100.
• Kentucky :  The state is discouraging all non-essential travel unless you are fully vaccinated. Those who aren’t vaccinated should  follow CDC guidance .

Penalties: None

• Maine : Visitors are required to show a negative COVID-19 test result or opt to self-quarantine for 10 days. They now also need to fill out a certificate of compliance, assuring that they will follow the rules, and submit it to their place of lodging. Travelers from other New England states are exempt, as are individuals who have had COVID-19 in the previous 90 days or are fully vaccinated against COVID. People who are not residents of Maine will be asked to sign a " Certificate of Compliance " if they seek lodging, indicating that they’ve tested negative and have plans to quarantine. Maine plans to lift many of its restrictions for visitors on May 1. Penalties:  “Punishment of up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine, and the payment of civil damages to the State for its costs associated with testing, investigating, contact tracing, and otherwise determining the extent of COVID-19 transmission.”
• Massachusetts :  Travelers entering the state (including returning residents) for longer than 24 hours are asked to self-quarantine for 10 days (or the length of their stay, if shorter) or show a negative result from a COVID test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Those who have been fully vaccinated for at least 14 days (and less than 90 days) prior to their arrival do not need to offer proof of testing or quarantine. Penalties : Failure to complete the form or quarantine may result in a fine of $500 a day.
• Minnesota: The state suggests that incoming visitors and residents returning from other states quarantine for 14 days upon arrival and to watch for symptoms; if they are fully vaccinated, they don’t need to quarantine but should still watch for symptoms). More details on the state’s quarantine guidance are  online . Penalties:  None
• New Hampshire : Visitors from within the U.S. are no longer required to quarantine upon arrival, though all are asked to follow CDC travel guidance. A 10-day quarantine is required of visitors from outside the U.S. and residents returning from international travel. Penalties : None
• New Jersey : The state strongly discourages all nonessential interstate travel. Those who do visit and residents returning from anywhere outside the region (beyond New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware) are asked to “consider getting tested with a viral test (not an antibody test) 1 to 3 days before the trip and again 3 to 5 days after the trip.” If they test negative, they should still quarantine for 7 days. If they test positive or can’t get tested, they should quarantine for at least 10 days. The website adds, “At this time, individuals who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 should continue to follow the State’s travel advisory.” Penalties : None. The guidelines are “voluntary, but compliance is expected.”
• New Mexico:  Travelers arriving in New Mexico, including returning residents, from states deemed high-risk based on COVID-positivity rates (as depicted on the state’s official map ) are no longer required to self-quarantine for two weeks or the length of their stay. Now travelers from anywhere outside the state are “strongly advised” to self-quarantine for 14 days and be tested for COVID-19 upon their arrival in New Mexico. Penalties : None
• New York :  Asymptomatic travelers are no longer required to test or quarantine. But a ll unvaccinated domestic travelers who have not recovered from COVID-19 in the past 3 months are recommended to get tested 3-5 days after arrival in New York, consider non-mandated self-quarantine (7 days if tested on day 3-5, otherwise 10 days), and avoid contact with people at higher risk for severe disease for 14 days, regardless of test result. All travelers (including those who are fully vaccinated) should immediately self-isolate if any symptoms develop and contact the local public health authority or their health care provider to determine if they should seek testing. All travelers also should fill out the  state’s health form , unless you’ve left New York for less than 24 hours or are coming to New York from a contiguous state (i.e., Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont). International travelers should follow CDC guidelines. If you have questions, you can call 888-364-3065 or  email.  

Penalties : The state reserves the right to issue a mandatory quarantine order if needed. Violators may be subject to a fine of up to $10,000 or up to 15 days of imprisonment.

• Oregon : The state recommends a two-week quarantine for returning residents and visitors from out of state (meaning they “should limit their interactions to their immediate household), unless they are fully vaccinated. Penalties:  None
• Rhode Island :  If you are coming to Rhode Island from a state with a COVID-19 positivity rate of greater than 5 percent —  the list is updated regularly  — or international travel you must self-quarantine for 10 days. If you have a negative result from a test taken no more than 72 hours before your arrival or 5 days after you arrived, you may shorten your quarantine to 7 days. Those who have been vaccinated at least 14 days prior to and less than 90 days before arrival are exempt. Penalties:   No more than $100 for the first violation
• Vermont :  Except for  international travel , travel no longer requires quarantine. Unvaccinated Vermonters who have traveled outside the state must be tested within 3 days of returning to Vermont. Unvaccinated people planning to visit Vermont must have a COVID-19 test within 3 days before arriving in Vermont. Follow the CDC’s guidance for international travel. Penalties : None.

Editor's note: This story was originally published on July 31, 2020. It's been updated to reflect recent quarantine rules.

Christina Ianzito is a Washington, D.C.-based journalist who joined AARP in 2010. She’s the travel and books editor for aarp.org and AARP The Magazine and also edits and writes health, entertainment and other stories for aarp.org. She received a 2020 Lowell Thomas Award for travel writing.

More on travel

Masks Now Required on Many Planes, Trains, Buses and at Airports

How to Stay Safe on a Road Trip During the Coronavirus Outbreak

Coronavirus and Travel: What You Should Know

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After Travel Tips

You may get infected during travel but not have symptoms until you get home. If you recently traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to your healthcare provider, and tell them about your travel.

Contact your healthcare provider if you feel sick

Contact your healthcare provider if you feel sick after your trip. Sharing the following information may help your healthcare provider identify possible diseases or infections:

• Your vaccination history.
• Where you traveled.
• Your reasons for traveling.
• Your travel activities, including swimming, hiking, etc.
• The timeframe of your vacation.
• Where you stayed, such as hotels, family or friends’ homes, hostels, or tents.
• What you ate and drank.
• Animals you had close contact with or touched.
• If you have any injuries, scratches, or bug bites.
• Health care or medications you received during your trip.
• Close contact with other people, including sexual encounters.
• If you got any tattoos or piercings.

If your healthcare provider has trouble determining why you are feeling sick, you may want to ask to speak with an infectious disease doctor or travel medicine specialist. Find a clinic for a travel medicine specialist.

Long-term Travelers

Long-term travelers, such as expatriate workers, Peace Corps volunteers, or missionaries, have a greater risk of getting infected, sometimes without symptoms, during travel. If you are a long-term traveler, consider having a thorough medical exam or interview with your healthcare provider after you return to the United States.

More Information:

• The Post Travel Evaluation in CDC Yellow Book
• Long-Term Travelers & Expatriates in CDC Yellow Book
• Screening Asymptomatic Returned Travelers in CDC Yellow Book

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Covid in summer 2024 - symptoms, testing and what to do if you have it

The number of people catching the coronavirus has jumped in recent weeks - but what are the rules around testing and self-isolating if you or your family are affected

• 15:56, 3 Jul 2024
• Updated 16:48, 3 Jul 2024

The number of people catching Covid has soared by a third in recent weeks. Latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency show that in the week running up to June 19, 2024, there were 2,815 confirmed cases in England - up by 33.5%.

And with minimum testing for the virus this means the figures could be significantly higher. Many of these are from a new group of variants known as FLiRT - coming from the JN.1 variant which is a sub-variant of the omicron strain.

Since the height of the pandemic the virus has been constantly changing - and along with it the symptoms as well as the testing and self-isolating rules. And far from the start when people had to stay away from others for at least 14 days many people are now treating it the same as any other bug and often behaving as usual.

While the strict rules have now gone there are however guidelines in place. So what are the current symptoms in summer 2024 and what should you do if you believe you have caught the virus?

According to the NHS Covid-19 symptoms in 2024 can include:

• a high temperature or shivering (chills) – a high temperature means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)
• a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours
• a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
• shortness of breath
• feeling tired or exhausted
• an aching body
• a sore throat
• a blocked or runny nose
• loss of appetite
• feeling sick or being sick

The symptoms are very similar to symptoms of other illnesses, such as colds and flu. Most people feel better within a few weeks, but it can take longer to recover.

However, for some people, it can be a more serious illness. This can mean that their symptoms last longer.

What to do if you have Covid-19 symptoms

The NHS advises people should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you or your child has symptoms and either:

• have a high temperature
• do not feel well enough to go to work, school, childcare, or do your normal activities

You can go back to your normal activities when you feel better or do not have a high temperature. If your child has mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or mild cough, and they feel well enough, they can go to school or childcare.

While treatment for Covid-19 isn't always possible there are things you can do to ease the symptoms.

You should:

get lots of rest

drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration (your pee should be light yellow or clear)

take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you feel uncomfortable

try having a teaspoon of honey if you have a cough – do not give honey to babies under 12 months

try turning the heating down or opening a window to help with breathlessness

breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth, with your lips together like you're gently blowing out a candle

sit upright in a chair to help with breathlessness

relax your shoulders, so you're not hunched to help with breathlessness

lean forward slightly – support yourself by putting your hands on your knees or on something stable like a chair to help with breathlessness

You should not:

lie on your back if you have a cough – lie on your side or sit upright instead

use a fan to cool your room as it may spread the virus

panic if you're feeling breathless – this can make it worse

What to do if you have tested positive

You are no longer required to do a Covid-19 rapid lateral flow test if you have symptoms. However, if you or your child have tested positive for Covid-19:

• try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for three days after the day the test was taken if you or your child are under 18 years old – children and young people tend to be infectious to other people for less time than adults
• try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for five days after the day you take your test if you are 18 years old or over
• avoid meeting people who are more likely to get seriously ill from viruses, such as people with a weakened immune system, for 10 days after the day you took your test

Who can get a free lateral flow Covid test?

Covid-19 rapid lateral flow tests are no longer free for most people. However, you may still be able to get free Covid-19 rapid lateral flow tests from the NHS if you:

• have a health condition which means you're eligible for Covid-19 treatment
• work in healthcare settings or in a hospice

If you want to get tested but are not eligible for free rapid lateral flow tests, you need to pay for the test yourself. You can buy rapid lateral flow tests from some pharmacies and retailers, in person or online.

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Map shows states where COVID levels are "high" or "very high" as summer wave spreads

By Alexander Tin

Edited By Paula Cohen

July 12, 2024 / 4:08 PM EDT / CBS News

More than half of states are now seeing "high" or "very high" levels of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in their wastewater testing, according to figures published Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as this summer's COVID wave reaches a growing share of the country.

Nationwide, the CDC now says that the overall level of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater is "high" for the first time since this past winter. Levels remain "high" across western states, where trends first began to worsen last month, while other regions are now seeing steeper increases at or near "high" levels.

Friday's update is the first since last month, due to the Fourth of July holiday. 

The uptick is in line with a growing number of COVID-19 patients showing up in emergency rooms. The District of Columbia and 26 states are now seeing "substantial increases" in COVID-19 emergency room visits, the agency says.

Nationwide, the average share of emergency room patients with COVID-19 is also now the highest it has been since February and has increased 115% from a month ago. 

Overall emergency room visits and hospitalization trends remain at what the CDC deems to be "low" levels in several states, far below the deadly peaks reached at earlier points during the pandemic. 

But COVID-19 emergency room visits crossed the threshold into "moderate" levels in Hawaii last month, after a surge that topped the last two waves of the virus. Florida also is now at "moderate" levels, amid a wave that is at peaks not seen since this past winter. 

"We are seeing patterns that are consistent with what we have observed over the last couple of years in the summer, where we have seen upticks in activity that have occurred around this time of year that are not quite as large as what we see during the winter peaks," said Aron Hall, deputy director for science in the CDC's Coronavirus and Other Respiratory Viruses Division.

Health authorities in some communities have said in recent weeks that the uptick is a sign that now could be the time for people looking to avoid COVID-19 infections — especially at-risk Americans , with underlying health issues — to start taking extra precautions like masking and testing in many parts of the country. 

Hall said the recent increase did not look to be any more severe than previous summer waves, but served as a reminder of the importance of getting vaccinated and other steps, like seeking out treatment for those at increased risk of severe disease.

"The activity that we are seeing now is consistent with previous trends. It is not necessarily cause for any additional alarm, but is an important reminder that there are key measures that folks can take to protect themselves," he said.

When will COVID-19 peak this summer?

Most of the first states to reach "high" COVID-19 levels in wastewater last month were in the West , where the share of COVID-19 patients in emergency rooms has also accelerated. Reported infections in nursing homes have also grown in this region.

Other countries have also seen COVID-19 trends rise this summer earlier than last year. In the United Kingdom, COVID-19 hospitalizations are at levels not seen since February. 

But there are signs now that this summer wave may have now reached its peak across some states in this region, where the virus first picked up steam.

Forecasts updated by the CDC this week estimate that COVID-19 infections are growing across almost all states, but are "stable or uncertain" in three: Hawaii, Oregon and New Mexico. 

"It's hard to predict the future. And if COVID has taught is anything, it's that things can always change. But based on previous trends, where we have seen sort of a summer wave that has peaked around July or August, is what we might expect for this year," said Hall.

Nursing home infections have slowed for a second straight week in the Pacific Northwest, in the region spanning Alaska through Oregon. 

In Hawaii, where COVID-19 emergency room trends this summer had peaked at levels worse than both their last winter and summer waves of the virus, patients have slowed for multiple weeks now.

Hall cautioned that while COVID-19 trends have slowed after summer peaks in recent years, they still remained far worse than the low levels seen during past springtime lulls in the virus.

"We don't see necessarily a nadir or bottoming out, between the summer and winter waves, at least historically. So that's important as we think about protecting people that are vulnerable," he said.

What is the latest variant in this COVID-19 wave?

The CDC last updated its every-other-week variant projections after the Fourth of July, estimating that the KP.3 variant had grown to more than a third of infections nationwide. 

Behind it were the KP.2 and LB.1 variants, two close relatives that are all descendants of the JN.1 strain that dominated infections this past winter. Put together, these three variants — KP.3, KP.2 and LB.1 — made up more than 3 in 4 infections nationwide. 

Hall said there is "still no indication of increased severity of illness" associated with any of these variants, similar to what the agency has said in recent weeks. 

Hall said the agency tracks data from hospitals and ongoing studies, as well as detailed analyses of the genetic changes to the virus, to search for signs that the risk from new variants might have grown.

"None of those data sources have given us any indication that these variants cause more severe disease than what we have seen previously," he said.

Through the end of June, the CDC estimated that all regions of the country were seeing a mix of these strains, though some more than others depending on the location.

KP.3 makes up the largest share of infections in several regions of the country, while LB.1 is larger around the New York and New Jersey area and KP.2 is bigger in New England. 

For now, Hall said KP.3 and LB.1 are the variants that are spreading fastest, though their relative growth looks to be "considerably lower" than previous highly mutated strains like the original Omicron variant.

"It's not anything as dramatic as some of the earlier shifts in the virus that we've seen," he said.

• COVID-19 Pandemic

Alexander Tin is a digital reporter for CBS News based in the Washington, D.C. bureau. He covers the Biden administration's public health agencies, including the federal response to infectious disease outbreaks like COVID-19.

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I’m a U.S. Citizen. Where in the World Can I Go?

For Americans eager to resume international travel, here are the countries that currently allow U.S. citizens to enter, though there may be restrictions, including vaccine requirements.

By Paige McClanahan

This list is no longer being updated. Find the latest coronavirus updates here .

Most of the world’s countries are open to travelers from the United States, and many nations are easing their requirements for visitors to test or quarantine. Some countries that had fully closed to foreign tourists — including Israel, Morocco, Bhutan, Australia and New Zealand — have now reopened to U.S. visitors, although they may continue to impose testing, vaccination or quarantine requirements.

In Europe, a growing number of nations — including Germany, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, among many others — have eliminated their Covid-related travel restrictions for the summer travel season. Meanwhile, several Southeast Asian nations that had closed their borders to tourists have now reopened. Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar and Cambodia are once again welcoming American visitors, although vaccine or testing requirements are in force in most cases.

For its part, the United States has lifted the requirement that inbound passengers, including returning Americans, provide a negative test result taken within one day of departure. The decision to lift the test requirement will be re-evaluated in September; the rule could be reinstated if authorities deem it necessary.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, meanwhile, continues advising Americans not to travel internationally until they are fully inoculated against Covid-19.

Those wanting to learn about the coronavirus risk in a specific country can visit the C.D.C. website where a four-tier ranking system provides guidance. The agency reserves the highest “Level 4” ranking for countries with “special circumstances” that include spiking case numbers, the emergence of worrying variants, or threats to the viability of health care infrastructure. (Levels 1 to 3 are still based primarily on Covid-19 case counts.) At the moment, no countries are classified at Level 4; those at Level 3, which have a “high” incidence of Covid-19, are indicated in the list below. For information on entry requirements like testing and quarantine, as well as curfews and movement restrictions, the State Department’s website offers detailed information by country.

What follows is a list of countries that are open to tourists from the United States. Many require visitors to complete a health form, provide proof of vaccination, and present a recent negative Covid-19 test result. To qualify as fully vaccinated in places such as France, Spain and the Netherlands, a visitor must have received either a booster shot or a second dose within a specified period.

As of May 1, visitors are no longer required to provide a negative test result or proof of vaccination. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Travel to Andorra is over land from Spain or France, so check the entry requirements for those countries first. There are no limits on movement between Spain and Andorra, nor for travelers entering Andorra from France. Travelers 12 and over departing Andorra for France must provide proof of full vaccination, a certificate of recent recovery, or a negative antigen test result from the previous 24 hours. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must complete a registration form before travel. They must also present a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test administered no more than 72 hours before departure and pay about $20 on arrival to undergo a rapid antigen test at the airport. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Angola.

All adult visitors must be vaccinated. Arriving passengers must also carry a negative result from a Covid-19 test. The result may be either from a rapid test taken within two days of arrival, or from an R.T.-P.C.R. test, N.A.A.T. test, or other molecular test administered within three days of arrival. Visitors who completed their primary course of vaccination more than six months previously and who have not received a booster are also required to test on arrival, at their own expense. Guests staying for more than eight days may undergo a free test on day 4 of their visit. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

ANTIGUA and BARBUDA

Vaccinated travelers are no longer required to test before travel, provided they are asymptomatic. Unvaccinated visitors must present either a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted no more than three days before arrival, or a negative result from an antigen test from the previous 24 hours; they must also be without symptoms. On arrival, they must submit to an R.T.-P.C.R. test at their own expense and self-quarantine for 14 days. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Americans may now enter Argentina without testing. Visitors must complete an electronic sworn statement within 48 hours of traveling and provide proof of medical insurance that covers Covid-19 treatment and quarantine. The government recommends that all visitors age 6 and over undergo a Covid-19 test within 24 hours of arrival, regardless of their vaccination status. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

The country has lifted its pandemic-related travel restrictions.

The country is open to visitors from the United States who have finished a primary course of vaccination (two doses of an mRNA vaccine or one dose of Johnson & Johnson). All passengers arriving by air must submit the Digital Passenger Declaration within 72 hours of their departure for Australia; they are no longer required to test before travel. Depending on their final destination within Australia, visitors may have to quarantine on arrival, even if they are vaccinated. Travelers should check the rules of the state or territory they are visiting to find the relevant quarantine requirements. Prospective visitors who are not fully vaccinated must qualify for an exemption . The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

The country lifted all pandemic-related travel restrictions on May 16. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors age 18 and over must present proof of vaccination or a certificate of recovery from Covid-19 infection.

THE BAHAMAS

All travelers age 18 and older must apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa; the cost of the visa includes insurance coverage and varies with the length of stay and vaccination status of the traveler. Health visa applications can take up to 24 hours to process; travelers must present their visa confirmation before departure to the Bahamas. Travelers with valid proof of vaccination may now enter without a negative test result. Unvaccinated travelers age 2 and over must present a negative result from a rapid antigen or R.T.-P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of travel. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

According to the U.S. Embassy, visitors must download the “ BeAware Bahrain ” app before travel. Arriving passengers are no longer required to test or show proof of vaccination. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must complete a health declaration form within three days of arrival. Vaccinated travelers may enter without a pretest. (A booster is not required to qualify.) Unvaccinated travelers age 12 and older must provide a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of departure. Symptomatic passengers may be subject to testing on arrival.

Vaccinated travelers may now enter without testing. Before departure, visitors should download the BIMSafe app and complete an online immigration and customs form . Vaccinated visitors may enter without quarantine, although they may be randomly selected for testing on arrival. Unvaccinated travelers age 5 and above must obtain a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test taken within three days of arrival, or from a rapid test taken within one day of entry; they must also undergo a rapid test on arrival. Children under 18 who aren’t vaccinated must follow the guidelines of their accompanying adult. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

U.S. visitors may now enter without testing or proof of vaccination. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Travelers with proof of vaccination may enter without a negative test result. Unvaccinated visitors age 5 and over must show a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of arrival, or from a rapid test taken within 48 hours of arrival. Alternatively, testing is available on arrival at the airport for $50; only cash payments are accepted. All foreign tourists must show proof of having purchased Belize travel insurance ($18 for 21 days). The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

All visitors to Benin must apply online for an eVisa before departure. Predeparture testing is no longer required.

Arriving passengers must show proof of vaccination (booster shots are not required) as well as a negative result from a rapid antigen test taken no more than two days before arrival, or a negative result from a P.C.R., N.A.A.T, T.M.A., or L.A.M.P. test taken within four days of arrival. Children under 2 are exempt from the pretest requirement, while children under 12 are exempt from the vaccination requirement. Visitors must pay $40 to apply for a travel authorization , which they can do up to one month before departure. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Vaccinated travelers must quarantine for five days after arrival; unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for ten days. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Bhutan.

Arriving passengers must present either proof of vaccination or a valid negative result from a Covid-19 test. The test result may be from an R.T.-P.C.R. test taken no more than 72 hours before boarding, or from a rapid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before boarding. Children under 5 are exempt from the requirements.

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

The country lifted its pandemic-related travel restrictions on May 26; travelers may now enter without a negative test result or proof of vaccination.

Visitors must have completed at least a primary course of vaccination; they are not required to test. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

U.S. tourists age 12 and older must present proof of vaccination, even if they have recovered from Covid-19; they no longer need to test before travel. Unvaccinated children under 12 who are traveling with vaccinated adults may also enter without testing. Unvaccinated adults must qualify for an exemption to be allowed entry. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Regardless of their vaccination status, all visitors over age 5 must present a negative result from a Covid-19 test (either rapid antigen or R.T.-P.C.R.) taken within 48 hours of arrival. Travelers who have recovered from Covid-19 in the previous 90 days may present proof of recovery in lieu of a negative test result. Anyone arriving without a valid test result or proof of recovery must pay $50 to undergo testing on arrival. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

As of May 1, Bulgaria has removed all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

BURKINA FASO

Arriving passengers must present proof of full vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. or rapid test taken in the previous five days. Travelers who arrive without proof of vaccination or a valid negative test result will be required to pay roughly $45 to undergo a rapid antigen test on arrival. To exit the country by air, travelers must present either proof of vaccination or a negative P.C.R. test dated within three days of their departing flight. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Burkina Faso.

Arriving passengers must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test administered no more than 72 hours before boarding their flight to Burundi. According to the U.S. Embassy, travelers must also pay $100 for an on-arrival test and self-isolate at an accommodation of their choice until they receive a negative result, usually within 24 hours. A negative P.C.R. result is also required to exit the country. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Burundi.

Arriving passengers must present either proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test result. The result may be from a P.C.R. test taken no more than 72 hours before departure, or from a rapid antigen test taken no more than 48 hours before departure. Visitors must also register , pay an airport fee, and complete a health questionnaire before travel. Arriving passengers are subject to a temperature check. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors may now enter without testing. Fully vaccinated travelers are not required to quarantine. Those who are unvaccinated must quarantine for seven days at a designated facility at their own expense; they must also undergo a rapid test on the final day before being released. The government encourages all travelers to purchase Covid-19 travel health insurance. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Cambodia.

Visitors from the United States who hold a valid tourist visa may enter Cameroon. Passengers age 5 and above must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test administered no more than 72 hours before arrival; the result must include a QR code.

Vaccinated U.S. citizens and residents may enter Canada for nonessential reasons, including tourism, without providing a negative test result. (A booster is not required to qualify.) All travelers must use the ArriveCAN system to enter their proof of vaccination and other traveler information within 72 hours of entry into Canada. Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated children under 12 are no longer required to test before travel if they are accompanied by a vaccinated adult. Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated minors ages 12 to 17 are subject to testing requirements and a 14-day quarantine. Unvaccinated adults must qualify for an exemption; if approved for entry, they are also subject to testing and quarantine requirements. The current rules are expected to remain in force until at least September 30 . The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

CAYMAN ISLANDS

As of June 30, vaccinated travelers may enter without testing. Unvaccinated visitors age 12 and over will not be allowed entry unless they can prove that they have a close tie to the country. Visitors are encouraged to test themselves daily during their first week in the country. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

THE CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

A negative P.C.R. test from the previous 72 hours is required for both entry and departure. According to the U.S. Embassy, tourists from the United States must quarantine for 14 days after arrival; employees of international and humanitarian organizations may end their quarantine early if they receive a negative result from a post-arrival P.C.R. test at the local Pasteur Institute. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Travelers with proof of vaccination may enter without a pretest. Unvaccinated travelers 12 and older must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 96 hours of arrival.

Arriving passengers must complete a traveler’s affidavit within 48 hours of boarding and provide proof of travel medical insurance that covers a minimum of $30,000 worth of Covid-19 medical expenses in Chile; they may now enter without testing. Visitors are no longer required to obtain a mobility pass (which requires proof of vaccination) to enter the country, but they may be required to present the pass to enter restaurants, participate in group tours, and attend concerts and sports events. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Arriving passengers age 18 and older must present either proof of vaccination or a valid negative result from a Covid-19 test. The result may be from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of travel or from an antigen test taken in the 48 hours before travel. Incoming passengers must also complete an online form within 72 hours of boarding their flight.

Visitors may enter with a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted in the 72 hours before travel. A negative P.C.R. result that is no more than 72 hours old is also required to leave the country. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Comoros.

The country has lifted its pandemic-related entry requirements. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

COTE D’IVOIRE

Fully vaccinated travelers may now enter without a negative test result. (A booster is required to qualify if the primary course of vaccination was completed more than nine months previously.) Unvaccinated travelers must carry a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of arrival in Abidjan. All passengers will have their temperatures checked and must undergo rapid antigen testing on arrival. Departing passengers who are unvaccinated must present a negative P.C.R. test from no more than 72 hours before travel, regardless of the testing requirements of their destination. Land and maritime borders remain closed to U.S. citizens.

Croatia has removed its Covid-related border rules; U.S. visitors may now enter as before the pandemic. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

General tourism is not permitted, but Americans are allowed to visit to see family and under certain professional and humanitarian circumstances. All incoming passengers must complete an online sworn statement before they depart for Cuba. Visitors are no longer required to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test result. Health authorities will randomly select passengers for Covid-19 screening on arrival.

As of June 1, visitors are no longer required to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test result. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

CZECH REPUBLIC

The country has removed all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

Before traveling, visitors should register at INRBCOVID.com . All travelers age 11 and older must present a negative result from a Covid-19 test taken within three days of departure. Unvaccinated travelers must undergo another test on arrival at their own expense and self-quarantine until they receive a negative result, generally within 24 hours. Visitors should also have proof of health and medical evacuation insurance and a certificate of yellow fever vaccination. To exit the country, travelers age 11 and over must present a negative result from a Covid-19 test taken at a government-approved lab within three days of departure. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to the D.R.C.

Denmark has lifted all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Potential visitors must apply online for an eVisa before travel. All arriving passengers 11 and older must provide proof of vaccination as well as a negative result from a Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of boarding their flight, and not more than 120 hours before their arrival in the country. Upon landing, travelers are given another test at a cost of $30. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Djibouti.

As of April 4, arriving passengers are no longer required to complete a health questionnaire before entry. Vaccinated travelers may enter without a pretest, though they may be tested on arrival if they display symptoms. Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of arrival or from an antigen test taken within 48 hours of arrival. Children aged 12 and under assume the status of their accompanying parent or guardian. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Visitors may now enter without testing or providing proof of vaccination. Passengers age 7 and over may be selected for random testing on arrival; those who can present a valid vaccination certificate will be exempt from the random test. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

DUTCH CARIBBEAN

Aruba allows visitors to enter without a negative test result or proof of vaccination. Arriving passengers are required to purchase Aruba Visitors Insurance and to complete an Embarkation/Disembarkation card before arrival. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Bonaire has lifted its pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Curaçao has lifted its pandemic-related travel restrictions. However, visitors must complete a digital immigration card before travel. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Saba has removed its pandemic-related travel restrictions.

Sint Eustatius has removed its pandemic-related travel restrictions.

Sint Maarten , which is Dutch, and French St. Martin are primarily entered through Princess Juliana Airport on the Dutch side. Visitors must register online at least 12 hours before travel. Vaccinated travelers, those who have proof of recovery from Covid-19 in the previous nine months, and children under 5 are not required to test before entry. Unvaccinated travelers 5 and over must present a negative P.C.R. result from the previous 48 hours or a negative antigen result from the previous 24 hours. Before travel, all visitors must submit a health authorization form , the completion of which includes the purchase of mandatory Covid-19 insurance. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

The country no longer requires a negative test result for entry; however, the U.S. Embassy notes that airlines may impose their own requirements. Passengers who display symptoms on arrival may be subject to testing. The Embassy advises potential visitors to confirm the latest entry rules with the Timorese Embassy in Washington before travel.

All arriving passengers age 3 and over must provide either proof of vaccination or a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test taken no more than 72 hours before boarding their flight to Ecuador. They must also complete a declaration of traveler health . Visitors may be subject to random antigen testing on arrival. Those traveling to the Galápagos must provide proof of vaccination or a negative R.T.-P.C.R. test result from the previous 72 hours; they must also obtain a transit control card from the government of Ecuador. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

EL SALVADOR

Visitors may now enter without testing or proof of vaccination.

EQUATORIAL GUINEA

All arriving passengers must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 48 hours of travel; travelers age 18 and over must also present proof of vaccination. Visitors must quarantine for three days after arrival at an accommodation of their choosing and obtain a negative test result before being released. A negative P.C.R. test result is also required to exit the country.

Visitors must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of entry and submit to an antigen test on arrival. Unvaccinated travelers must quarantine for five days, then obtain a negative test result before exiting quarantine. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Eritrea.

Arriving passengers must complete an online form in the 72 hours before entering the country. Visitors from the United States who are vaccinated or who have recovered from Covid-19 in the previous 180 days may enter without testing. (Travelers who have received two doses of vaccine are considered fully vaccinated for nine months after completing their primary course of vaccination; a booster dose extends the period of validity for one year.) Unvaccinated and unrecovered visitors may enter with a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. or antigen test taken in the 48 hours before arrival. Children under 12 are exempt from the requirements. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Vaccinated visitors and those who have a certificate of Covid-19 recovery from the previous 90 days are no longer required to test before travel. (A booster is not required to qualify.) Unvaccinated visitors over age 12 must carry a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of departure, or a negative result from an antigen test taken within 24 hours of arrival.

All visitors must provide proof of vaccination, proof of travel insurance, and confirmation that they have pre-booked a rapid test to be taken after arrival. (Children under 12 are exempt from the in-country test requirement; children under 16 are exempt from the vaccination requirement.)

The country lifted its pandemic-related travel restrictions on June 30. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Fully vaccinated visitors no longer need to test before arrival. (To qualify as fully vaccinated, arriving passengers must have received their second dose of vaccine within the past nine months; those who have also received a booster dose are not subject to a time limit.) Unvaccinated travelers from the U.S. must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of departure or a negative result from an antigen test from the previous 48 hours. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

FRENCH POLYNESIA

The country is open to fully vaccinated tourists from the United States. Those who have received only two doses of vaccine qualify as “fully vaccinated” for nine months following the date of their second dose; those who have also received a booster face no time limit. Arriving passengers aged 12 or older who are flying to French Polynesia directly from the United States are required to present a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. taken within 72 hours of boarding or a negative result from an antigen test administered within 48 hours of boarding. Those who are unvaccinated must provide a compelling reason for their visit to French Polynesia. If permitted entry, unvaccinated travelers must test before travel and quarantine for seven days after arrival. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to French Polynesia.

FRENCH WEST INDIES

(Most islands consider two weeks after the second injection as full vaccination, and four weeks for Johnson & Johnson.)

St. Barts is open to fully vaccinated travelers without a test requirement. Unvaccinated visitors must present a negative result either from a P.C.R. test conducted no more than 72 hours before departure, or from an antigen test from the previous 48 hours. All visitors must present a sworn statement that they have no symptoms and that they are not aware of Covid-19 exposure in the previous 14 days. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

St. Martin : See Sint Maarten under Dutch Caribbean.

Guadeloupe and Martinique are open to vaccinated travelers, but those 12 and older who are coming from the United States need a negative result from a P.C.R. or antigen test taken in the 24 hours before departure. They may also be subject to testing on arrival. Unvaccinated visitors must show proof of a compelling reason to travel. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

The country has lifted its pandemic-related restrictions. Visitors may now enter without a negative test result.

Fully vaccinated travelers do not need a pretest, but they may be subject to rapid testing on arrival if they display symptoms. Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test administered no more than 72 hours before departure.

The country has lifted its pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

The country has suspended its pandemic-related travel restrictions until the end of August. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Non-citizen and non-resident visitors who are 18 or older must show proof of vaccination in order to qualify for an entry visa (a booster is not required). Arriving passengers no longer need to provide a negative test result. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Ghana.

As of May 1, visitors may enter without providing proof of vaccination or recovery or a negative Covid-19 test result. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

The country has removed its pandemic-related travel requirements. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Greenland.

Travelers must present either proof of vaccination (a booster is not required) or a negative result from a P.C.R. or antigen test conducted no more than three days before check-in at the airport or arrival at a land border. Children under 10 are exempt.

The government of Guinea no longer requires pre-departure testing, but the U.S. Embassy recommends that travelers confirm the latest rules with their airline before departure. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; if you are unvaccinated, the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Guinea.

GUINEA-BISSAU

Visitors may enter with a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the previous 48 hours. Travelers must also obtain a negative P.C.R. result within 72 hours of their departure from the country; tests can be obtained in the capital city of Bissau for about $45.

Arriving passengers must show proof of full vaccination and carry a negative result from a Covid-19 test administered within 72 hours of arrival. Anyone arriving with an expired test result must pay about $85 to undergo testing at the airport and quarantine until they receive a negative result. Unvaccinated travelers over the age of 12 will not be allowed entry. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors to Haiti must present a negative result from either a P.C.R. or antigen test administered no more than 72 hours before travel. Passengers who have had Covid-19 may present their positive test as well as documentation from their doctor confirming recovery.

Fully vaccinated tourists are not required to pretest, but others must have a negative result from a Covid-19 test taken in the previous 72 hours. Visitors must also complete an online pre-check form before travel.

Hungary has lifted all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

The country lifted all Covid-related border restrictions on Feb. 25. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Passengers arriving from the United States must submit either proof of vaccination (with or without a booster) or a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of departure. Travelers should upload the relevant documentation to the Air Suvidha portal before departure. Two percent of arriving passengers are randomly selected to undergo testing on arrival. Children under 5 are exempt from testing unless they develop Covid-19 symptoms. All travelers are asked to monitor their health for 14 days after arrival and self-isolate if they develop Covid-19 symptoms.

U.S. travelers are eligible for a visa on arrival if they can show proof of vaccination (with or without a booster; children under 12 are exempt). They must also download the PeduliLindungi app before departure; submit to a temperature screening on arrival; provide proof of health insurance that covers at least $25,000 worth of medical treatment in Indonesia; pay a visa fee of approximately $35; carry a passport with a validity of at least six months; and be able to present either a return ticket or a ticket for onward travel to another country. Covid-19 testing is no longer required. The U.S. Embassy recommends that travelers consult the Indonesian Embassy in the United States for the latest entry rules.

Visitors must apply for a tourist visa , which can be done online. Arriving passengers must present proof of vaccination as well as a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted within 72 hours of arrival.

Arriving passengers must present either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the previous 72 hours. The U.S. Embassy advises that all arriving passengers should be prepared to pay in cash for on-arrival testing at the airport, although this requirement is unevenly enforced. Visitors to the Iraqi Kurdistan Region require a negative P.C.R. result from the previous 48 hours; anyone without a negative test result must test on arrival. Visitors must also pledge to self-isolate for 14 days.

Ireland has removed all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must provide a completed incoming passenger form and show proof of insurance covering Covid-19 treatment. Testing is no longer required. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Italy lifted its pandemic-related travel restrictions on June 1. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Jamaica has removed all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Japan has reopened to U.S. visitors who are pre-booked on package tours. After applying for their visa, visitors must obtain a negative result from a Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure; install the MySOS app and complete the app’s questionnaire; register their information on Visit Japan Web , which will generate a required QR code; and purchase health insurance to cover Covid-19 treatment in Japan. Visitors are required to wear masks in the country. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors age 5 and over must complete an online declaration and present the resulting QR code when boarding. Testing is no longer required. According to the U.S. Embassy, non-Jordanians must present proof of health insurance.

According to Air Astana, the country’s biggest airline, passengers arriving in Kazakhstan are no longer required to present a negative test result or proof of vaccination. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Kazakhstan.

Fully vaccinated visitors may enter without a pretest. Unvaccinated travelers age 5 and above must present a negative P.C.R. result from up to 72 hours before departure; they must also pay $30 to undergo rapid testing on arrival. Visitors should upload their proof of vaccination or negative test result to the Global Haven platform before departure. They must also complete a health surveillance form and present the resulting QR code when traveling.

The country has removed its pandemic-related entry requirements.

The country has lifted its pandemic-related travel requirements. U.S. visitors must apply online for an eVisa before departure. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC

The country has lifted its pandemic-related travel requirements. However, the U.S. Embassy notes that the rules may change with little or no advance notice and that airline requirements may differ from those of the government.

Visitors with proof of vaccination may enter without restriction; C.D.C. cards are accepted. Unvaccinated travelers age 12 and over must obtain a negative result from a Covid-19 test within 48 hours of their departure for Laos; rapid tests are accepted. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

As of April 1, visitors may enter without proof of vaccination or a negative test result, provided that their point of departure is not on Latvia’s list of “high-risk countries” (at the moment, no countries are on this list). The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Fully vaccinated travelers may enter without a negative test result. (Visitors who completed their primary course of vaccination more than six months previously must have also received a booster dose to qualify as vaccinated.) Unvaccinated travelers age 12 and over must present a negative result from a P.C.R. or antigen test taken with 48 hours of departure. They must also undergo a P.C.R. test on arrival and avoid public places until they receive a negative result, usually within 24 hours.

Travelers must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the 72 hours before departure. All passengers are screened on arrival; those presenting Covid-19 symptoms may be denied entry. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Travelers age 18 and over must show proof of vaccination and complete a health screening form via the Lib Travel app . In addition, all travelers age 5 and over must present a negative result from a P.C.R. or rapid antigen test taken in the 72 hours before departure.

U.S. citizens may enter with a negative result from a P.C.R. test administered no more than 48 hours before travel. According to the U.S. Embassy, visitors from the United States may be required to quarantine; it recommends that travelers confirm the latest rules with the Libyan Embassy in Washington, D.C. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Libya.

LIECHTENSTEIN

See Switzerland.

As of May 1, U.S. visitors are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination or a negative test result on entry; the requirement to complete an arrival form has also been removed. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

U.S. tourists may enter with proof of vaccination or recovery. Travelers are considered vaccinated for nine months following the completion of their primary course of vaccination; a booster extends the validity of their vaccination certificate indefinitely. Recovery certificates are valid for 180 days. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Arriving passengers must present a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test administered no more than 72 hours before boarding. A second test is required on arrival, at a cost of $20. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Madagascar.

Arriving passengers must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of departure; children under the age of 1 are exempt. A negative result from the previous 72 hours is also required to exit Malawi, regardless of the requirements of the destination country.

Fully vaccinated travelers and children age 12 and under may enter without testing. Visitors who were vaccinated outside of Malaysia must upload their proof of vaccination via the MySejahtera app before departure. Unvaccinated adult visitors must obtain a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within two days of departure; they must also submit to a test within 24 hours of arrival and quarantine for five days. Additional travel restrictions apply for travel to the states of Sabah and Sarawak . The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Arriving passengers no longer need to present a negative test result, but they must complete a Traveler Health Declaration form within 72 hours of departure. They must also carry proof of a booking at a registered tourist accommodation. No quarantine is required for travelers who do not exhibit symptoms. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to the Maldives.

Arriving passengers must present either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the previous 72 hours. The same rule applies to those departing the country.

Arriving passengers must present one of the following: proof of vaccination, a certificate of recovery, or a valid negative test result. U.S. travelers should verify their C.D.C. vaccination cards through the VeriFLY app . To qualify as fully vaccinated , travelers aged 18 and over who have undergone only a primary course of vaccination must have received the final dose in the previous 270 days; those who have also received a booster dose are considered vaccinated indefinitely. (Minors are considered vaccinated indefinitely following a primary course of vaccination.) Recovery certificates are valid for 180 days. Negative test results are valid for 24 hours (if from an antigen test) or 72 hours (if from a P.C.R. test). Children under 12 are exempt from the requirements. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must present proof of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted within three days of entry. Passengers are subject to a temperature check on arrival. The U.S. Embassy notes that some visitors have reported that their airlines have demanded a negative test result in addition to their proof of vaccination.

Visitors must complete a travel form . Vaccinated travelers do not need to test before departure but must undergo testing on arrival. In addition to the travel form and on-arrival test, unvaccinated travelers age 18 and over must also self-isolate for seven days after arrival in an accommodation of their choice. They must test on day 7 and, if the result is negative, are free to move around the island on day 8. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

U.S. travelers may enter Mexico without testing or quarantine, though they may be subject to health screenings on arrival. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Moldova has lifted all Covid-related entry requirements.

The United States is on the list of “green zone” countries, which means that travelers 16 and over may enter Monaco by presenting one of the following: proof of full vaccination against Covid-19; proof of recovery in the past six months; or a negative result from a P.C.R. or antigen test conducted within the previous 24 hours. To qualify as fully vaccinated, everyone 18 or over must have received a booster dose of an mRNA vaccine no later than nine months following the completion of their first course of vaccination. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

The country has removed its Covid-related entry requirements. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Arriving passengers are no longer required to present proof of vaccination or a negative test result. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Arriving passengers must present a completed health form . They must also provide either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the 72 hours before travel. Children under 12 are exempt from the requirements.

Vaccinated visitors as well as children age 11 and younger may now enter without testing. Unvaccinated travelers over the age of 11 must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test administered within 72 hours of their departure for Mozambique; alternatively, they may choose to pay to undergo a rapid test on arrival. The U.S. Embassy encourages U.S. travelers to obtain their visa before departure via the Mozambican Embassy in Washington, D.C. or the Mozambican consulate in New York.

Visitors must carry a valid tourist visa. They must also present either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. test within 72 hours of departure. (Children under 6 are exempt.) In addition, they must carry Covid-19 insurance, complete a health declaration, and pay to undergo rapid testing on arrival.

Passengers who present proof of vaccination may enter without testing. Unvaccinated visitors age 5 and over must provide a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of travel. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors age 5 and over arriving by air must present either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a Covid-19 test (R.T.-P.C.R., N.A.A.T., or Gene Xpert) taken within 72 hours of departure. Travelers who display symptoms may be subject to testing on arrival.

NETHERLANDS

Vaccinated visitors from the United States may now enter without a negative test result. (A booster dose is required if more than 270 days have passed since the traveler completed his or her primary course of vaccination.) Unvaccinated travelers 18 and over are not allowed entry unless they qualify for an exemption . The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

NEW CALEDONIA

U.S. tourists age 12 and over must present one of the following: proof of vaccination, a certificate of recovery from the previous six months; a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of boarding; or a negative result from a rapid antigen test taken in the previous 48 hours. At the time of boarding, they must also present a sworn statement in which they commit to undergo testing within two days of arrival. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to New Caledonia. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand is now open to vaccinated visitors from the United States and other “visa waiver” countries. Arriving passengers must complete an online declaration ; provide a negative test result before departure; and self-test on arrival and on day 5 or 6 in the country. Children under 2 are exempt from the pre-departure test requirement; babies under 6 months are exempt from the post-arrival test requirement. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Travelers who can provide proof of vaccination may now enter without testing. Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of entry. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Nicaragua.

Travelers must obtain a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken no more than 72 hours before departure and register the result online. A negative test result from the previous 72 hours is also required to exit the country.

Arriving passengers must register online before travel. Fully vaccinated travelers may now enter without testing (a booster is not required to qualify). Unvaccinated travelers must upload a negative result from a P.C.R. test administered within 48 hours of departure; they must also pre-pay for tests on days 2 and 7 and isolate after arrival until they receive a negative result from the second test. Children under 18 are exempt from the requirements. Travelers leaving Nigeria must present either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted within 48 hours of departure.

NORTH MACEDONIA

Visitors are no longer required to provide a negative test result or proof of vaccination. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Norway has lifted all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Vaccinated travelers may enter without a pretest. Unvaccinated travelers over the age of 12 must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of boarding. All passengers should download the Pass Track App before travel and should be aware that they may be subject to rapid testing on arrival.

Palau is open to fully vaccinated visitors. Arriving passengers must provide a negative result from a P.C.R., N.A.A.T., R.T.-P.C.R. or other approved molecular test taken within three days of their departure. Alternatively, they may present a negative result from an antigen test taken no more than one day before departure, or documentation of recovery from Covid, including proof of a recent positive viral test and a letter from a health care provider or a public health official clearing the person to travel. All travelers will also undergo testing after arrival in Palau.

Travelers are required to submit a completed health affidavit to their airline before boarding. Vaccinated travelers can enter Panama without a pretest (a booster is not required to qualify). Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative result from a P.C.R. or antigen test. If the test result is more than 72 hours old at the time of the traveler’s arrival in Panama, a rapid Covid-19 test will be performed at the airport, at a cost of $50. Accompanied children under 17 are exempt from the requirements. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

U.S. visitors must apply for a tourist visa before travel. Visitors age 18 and over must show proof of vaccination; testing is no longer required. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Foreign visitors with proof of vaccination are no longer required to test before travel. Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R., L.A.M.P., or N.A.A.T. test taken no more than 72 hours before departure; children under 12 are exempt.

Visitors must present either proof of full vaccination or a negative result from a molecular test taken within 48 hours of departure; they must also complete an affidavit of health . Children under 12 are exempt from the testing and vaccination requirements but must be without Covid-19 symptoms at the time of boarding.

PHILIPPINES

Visitors from the United States are allowed entry provided they carry the following documents: proof of vaccination; passports that are valid for at least six months beyond their date of arrival; and a ticket for outbound travel within 30 days of arrival. Visitors must also complete a health declaration card ; they are no longer required to test before entry. Unvaccinated visitors over age 12 will not be allowed entry.

Visitors may now enter without testing, quarantine or proof of vaccination.

Arriving passengers age 12 and over must present a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. or N.A.A.T. test conducted no more than 72 hours before boarding, or from a rapid test from the previous 24 hours. Travelers who carry an E.U. Digital Covid Certificate or proof of vaccination issued in one of several approved countries may enter without a negative pretest. The United States is not among the approved countries; however, some travelers have reported that their airlines have told them that their C.D.C. vaccination cards will be accepted in lieu of a negative test result. There is no official guidance on this point, so the U.S. Embassy “ strongly recommends ” that travelers carrying C.D.C. vaccination cards arrive with a valid negative test result. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must register online before travel. Fully vaccinated and recovered travelers from the United States and other countries that do not appear on Qatar’s red list may enter with a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 48 hours of departure. In addition to the pretest, unvaccinated travelers from the United States must also quarantine for five days after arrival and undergo a P.C.R. test on arrival and a rapid test on day 5. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

REPUBLIC OF CONGO

Those planning to travel to the Republic of Congo must complete an online form , pre-pay roughly $68 for a Covid-19 test to be administered on arrival, and print the receipt for that payment to carry with them while traveling. Anyone who tests positive on arrival must isolate until they receive a negative result. Departing travelers must present a negative result from a virus test conducted no more than 72 hours before their scheduled departure.

Romania has lifted all pandemic-related travel restrictions.

Before traveling to Rwanda, visitors must complete a passenger locator form and obtain a negative result from an antigen test conducted no more than 72 hours before their flight departure. Visitors must also pay $5 to undergo an additional rapid test on arrival. Travelers leaving Rwanda must obtain a negative Covid-19 test result within 72 hours of their departing flight. Children under 5 are exempt from testing. Tourists to the national parks may face additional requirements.

ST. KITTS AND NEVIS

All visitors 18 and over must be fully vaccinated, while unvaccinated minors may enter with their accompanying vaccinated adults and follow the same regulations. In addition to their proof of vaccination, arriving passengers must present either a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. or N.A.A.T. test taken within three days of arrival, or a negative result from a rapid antigen test taken within one day of arrival. Each visitor must also complete an embarkation form no later than 24 hours before departure. Travelers who have recovered from Covid-19 are not exempt from the pretest requirement. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must complete a health screening form before departure. As of April 2, fully vaccinated travelers are no longer required to test before travel. Unvaccinated travelers 5 and over must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted in the five days before arrival. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States no longer need to test before travel; they must complete a health form on landing and may be subject to testing. Unvaccinated travelers must arrive with one of the following: a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted in the previous 72 hours, or a negative antigen result from the previous 24 hours. They may be subject to testing on arrival; they must quarantine for 5 days and undergo an additional test on day 3 or 4 of quarantine. Minors follow the protocol of their parents or guardians. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

See Italy. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE

The government has lifted all pandemic-related travel restrictions.

SAUDI ARABIA

Visitors must apply for a tourist visa before travel. According to the U.S. Embassy, they must also show proof of insurance that covers illness related to Covid-19.

Arriving passengers must present either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. or R.T.-P.C.R. test taken in the 72 hours before arrival. Children under 2 are exempt.

The country has removed its pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must apply for travel authorization up to 72 hours before departure. Most applications are processed within 12 hours of submission; expedited processing is available for an additional fee. In applying for authorization, unvaccinated visitors must upload a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test administered no more than 72 hours before departure or a negative result from a rapid antigen test from within 24 hours of departure. Vaccinated travelers do not need to provide a negative test result. (Travelers age 18 and over who completed their primary course of vaccination more than six months previously must also have received a booster dose to qualify as vaccinated.) Visitors must also submit their accommodation bookings as well as proof of travel insurance with full medical coverage valid for the duration of their stay. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

SIERRA LEONE

Visitors must register online before departure. Vaccinated travelers may enter without testing. Unvaccinated travelers do not need a pre-departure test, but they must pay in advance to undergo both a rapid test and a P.C.R. test on arrival. All passengers are subject to a health screening at the airport. To exit the country, all travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, must obtain a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken between 48 and hours before departure. Children under 5 are exempt from the test requirements.

All visitors must complete an arrival card within three days of entry and install the TraceTogether app. Vaccinated travelers as well as unvaccinated children born in or after 2010 may now enter without testing or quarantine. Unvaccinated travelers born in or before 2009 must apply for permission to enter. If approved, they must obtain a negative result from either a P.C.R. test or an antigen test administered within two days of departure. (Unvaccinated travelers who have a positive test result dated between 14 and 90 days before their departure for Singapore may be exempt from the pre-departure test.) Unvaccinated travelers must also quarantine for seven days after arrival. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Slovakia has eliminated all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors arriving from the United States are no longer required to test or show proof of vaccination. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must present a negative result from a Covid-19 test conducted within 72 hours of arrival and submit to a health screening on entry. Travelers to Somaliland may avoid a 14-day quarantine by presenting a negative result from a Covid-19 test taken in the previous 96 hours. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

SOUTH AFRICA

South korea.

Visitors should register their information on the Q-Code website before departure. Arriving passengers must present proof of full vaccination (including a booster shot if more than 180 days have passed since the completion of the traveler’s first vaccine series). Travelers must also complete a health questionnaire and travel record declaration. In addition, visitors must provide a negative result from a supervised rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure, or a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the previous 48 hours. In addition, all travelers must undergo a P.C.R. test within three days of entry. Travelers who display symptoms on arrival may be subject to testing at the airport. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

SOUTH SUDAN

Both inbound and outbound passengers must present proof of vaccination and a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the previous 72 hours. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

U.S. visitors may enter Spain with one of the following: proof of vaccination; a certificate of recovery from the previous 180 days; a negative result from an N.A.A.T. test performed within 72 hours of departure; or a negative result from a rapid antigen test performed within 24 hours of departure. To qualify as vaccinated, visitors who have completed only a primary course of vaccination must have received their final dose within the past nine months; those who have also received a booster dose face no time restriction. Children under 12 are exempt from the requirements. Before departure, all visitors must complete a health control form , which will generate a QR code that must be presented at the time of boarding and upon entry in Spain. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Fully vaccinated visitors as well as children under 12 may enter Sri Lanka without testing. Unvaccinated travelers age 12 and over must present a negative result from P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of departure, or a negative result from a rapid antigen test conducted within 48 hours of departure. All visitors must purchase Covid-19 insurance at a cost of $12 per month.

Visitors age 8 and over arriving from the United States must present either a certificate of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. test administered no more than 96 hours before arrival. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Sudan.

Travelers who are vaccinated or who can document their recovery from Covid-19 in the previous six months are no longer required to test before entry. Unvaccinated visitors age 12 and over must carry a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted within 48 hours of travel or from an antigen test from the previous 24 hours. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Sweden has lifted all pandemic-related entry restrictions.

SWITZERLAND

As of May 2, U.S. visitors may enter without testing or providing proof of vaccination. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

All travelers age 3 and over must show either proof of vaccination or a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of their arrival in the country. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Tajikistan.

Visitors to Tanzania must complete a health surveillance form within 24 hours of arrival. (Those traveling directly to Zanzibar should complete this form instead.) Travelers who present a vaccination card that includes a QR code may enter without testing. (The U.S. Embassy advises travelers to look here for information on how to obtain a QR code for a C.D.C. vaccination card.) Unvaccinated travelers must present a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. or N.A.A.T. test administered within 72 hours of travel; the test result must include a QR code. Children 5 and under are exempt from the test requirement.

Fully vaccinated and recovered international visitors may now enter Thailand without quarantine or testing. Travelers must apply for a Thailand Pass before departure and provide proof of health insurance to cover at least $10,000 in medical expenses. Unvaccinated travelers must provide a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test conducted within 72 hours of departure. They must also apply for a Thailand Pass and provide proof of insurance. Unvaccinated travelers who arrive without a valid negative test result must follow the instructions of the public health officer they meet on arrival. All passengers undergo health screening on arrival, including a temperature check. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

All visitors must complete a travel form and upload a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken no more than three days before their departure for Togo. Visitors must also pay in advance for a second P.C.R. test, to be administered upon their arrival at Lomé Airport; proof of payment for the test must be shown before boarding. Arriving passengers must self-isolate until they receive a negative result from their on-arrival test, usually within 24 hours. Visitors are required to download the Togo Safe app; those who refuse may have to quarantine in a state facility for at least two weeks. Exit testing at the traveler’s expense is required no more than 72 hours before their departing flight.

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

As of July 1, visitors will no longer be required to test before entry. They also no longer need to show proof of vaccination or apply for a travel pass. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Arriving passengers must complete an online questionnaire . Travelers who are fully vaccinated do not need to test before travel. Unvaccinated travelers 6 and over must present either a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken no more than 48 hours before departure or a negative result from an antigen test that is no more than 24 hours old. Travelers may be subject to random testing on arrival.

TURKS AND CAICOS

Fully vaccinated visitors may now enter without testing (a booster is not required to qualify). Unvaccinated travelers age 18 and over are not allowed entry. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Fully vaccinated travelers and children age 5 and under may enter without testing. Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test conducted no more than 72 hours before boarding.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Vaccinated visitors to Abu Dhabi are no longer required to test before travel. Unvaccinated travelers age 16 and over must present either a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the previous 48 hours, or a Covid-19 recovery certificate dated within 30 days of departure; the certificate must have a QR code. Visitors must be fully vaccinated to enter most public places in Abu Dhabi.

Fully vaccinated visitors to Dubai no longer need to test before travel; their proof of vaccination must include a QR code. Unvaccinated travelers age 12 and over must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test from the previous 48 hours; alternatively, they may present proof of recovery from Covid-19 in the previous month. The U.S. Embassy advises travelers to check with their airlines for the latest information on testing requirements. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

UNITED KINGDOM

The United Kingdom has lifted all pandemic-related travel restrictions. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Visitors must complete a health declaration form before departure and carry proof of travel insurance. Vaccinated travelers and those who have recovered from Covid-19 in the previous 90 days may now enter without testing. Unvaccinated and unrecovered travelers age 6 and over must present a negative result from a P.C.R. or antigen test conducted in the 72 hours before departure; in addition, they must either quarantine for 14 days or undergo a P.C.R. test on day 7. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Travelers may now enter without testing or proof of vaccination; they must complete a health screening form on arrival and may be subject to testing if they display symptoms. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Uzbekistan.

Arriving passengers must present either proof of vaccination or a negative result from an R.T.-P.C.R. test taken within 72 hours of entry. (A booster dose is required to qualify as vaccinated if more than 270 days have passed since the completion of the first vaccine series.) The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is “Level Unknown”; the agency recommends that those who are unvaccinated avoid travel to Venezuela.

Foreign visitors must present proof of travel insurance worth at least $10,000 and download and use the PC-COVID app while in the country. Travelers are not required to test or provide proof of vaccination, but they are asked to monitor their health for 10 days and inform authorities if they develop any Covid-19 symptoms. The C.D.C. risk assessment for Covid-19 is Level 3: High.

Vaccinated travelers may now enter without testing (a booster is not required to qualify). Unvaccinated travelers must carry a negative result from a P.C.R. test taken in the 72 hours before departure; children under 12 are exempt. All passengers undergo health screening on arrival; symptomatic travelers must isolate for 14 days and may be required to undergo testing.

Vaccinated visitors may now enter without testing. Unvaccinated visitors must present a negative result from a P.C.R. test administered no more than 48 hours before travel.

Heather Murphy, Ceylan Yeginsu, Concepción de León and Karen Schwartz contributed reporting.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

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What Does Recovery From COVID-19 Look Like?

• Recovery Rates
• How You Feel

Long COVID Recovery

• Reinfection

How to Feel Better

COVID-19 —an infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus—first appeared in late 2019 and can manifest in several ways, ranging from no or mild symptoms to severe or critical illness.

While most people with COVID-19 fully recover, the timeline for this recovery process varies. Also, some individuals do go on to experience long-term health problems—what's known as long COVID or post-COVID-19 conditions.

This article will discuss COVID-19 recovery, including a general timeline and the challenges a person may experience. It will also review strategies a person can implement at home to help optimize their recovery process.

Westend61 / Getty Images

COVID-19 Recovery Rates

Several research studies have reported COVID-19 rates of recovery and fatality, which are how many people with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 get better or die as a result of the disease.

The problem is that estimating fatality and recovery rates can be misleading. COVID-19 may cause no symptoms, so data on people who are not tested cannot be reported. Moreover, studies vary considerably in design and populations included (e.g., different ages and locations).

Scientific studies suggest the fatality rate in unvaccinated people to be between 0.15% and 1% ; although, knowledge about COVID-19 is evolving, and so many factors, especially age, seem to affect prognosis .

While most people infected with COVID-19 recover, those who are most vulnerable to dying are people hospitalized for severe illness, especially if they are admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU)

One study—which included 30 studies analyzing over 13,000 people from different countries hospitalized with COVID-19—reported a recovery rate of up to 94% in hospitalized people and 65% in people admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).

Risk Factors For Severe Illness

Adults aged 65 years or older are most likely to have severe illness from COVID-19 (e.g., pneumonia ) and be hospitalized. Certain underlying health conditions (e.g., chronic lung disease or diabetes) also increase a person's risk for severe illness.

How You May Feel While Recovering

Recovering from COVID-19 is a unique journey, depending on factors like age, disease severity, symptoms, and whether a person has other health conditions.

The good news is that most people have mild symptoms, although these symptoms can take several days, if not weeks, to get better.

If you had a severe illness and were hospitalized, know that your recovery is going to be slower and more involved.

To improve strength and build endurance, you may need multiple follow-up visits with a healthcare provider or see various rehabilitation therapists, such as a physical therapist .

In addition to the physical symptoms of a COVID-19 infection, the illness often has emotional, social, and psychological consequences.

For example, some people, especially those experiencing persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, or lack of energy, report difficulties caring for their children or grandchildren, performing household chores, or engaging in leisure or social activities.

This can lead to isolation, loneliness, and negative emotions like guilt, frustration, and sadness.

If you are experiencing any of these hardships or emotions, don't hesitate to contact loved ones for support and comfort. You may also ask a provider to refer you to a counselor or therapist during this trying time.

What’s the Timeline for COVID Recovery?

The timeline for COVID-19 recovery refers to the period between the date of confirmed infection and recovery from the illness.

The typical timeline for recovery from COVID-19 is highly variable and based on factors like age, sex, disease severity, vaccination status, and whether a person has underlying health problems.

Specific COVID-19-related symptoms (e.g., trouble breathing) and the potential use of certain treatments can also affect the recovery timeline.

All said, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people with COVID-19 recover within one month, although it can take up to 12 weeks.

Similarly, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), people with moderate COVID-19 infection generally recover in two weeks, whereas those with a serious illness recover in three to six weeks.

How Long Is Someone Contagious With COVID-19?

People infected with COVID-19 can transmit the virus from one to two days before and up to eight to 10 days after symptoms start. People with no symptoms can also transmit the virus.

Long COVID means symptoms from an acute COVID-19 infection have been present for at least three months.

Symptoms can be continuous, come and go, and/or worsen or change over time. New symptoms may also emerge after a COVID-19 illness.

Over 200 long COVID health symptoms have been reported. Common ones include:

• Brain fog (difficulty with concentration, memory, multi-tasking)
• Post-exertional malaise (fatigue symptoms after mental or physical activity)
• Digestive symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation
• Chest pain and palpitations
• Change in sexual desire or function
• Loss of or changes in taste and smell

Other symptoms may include breathlessness, sleep problems, muscle aches, depression , anxiety, recurring headaches , and trouble speaking.

How Common Is Long COVID-19?

According to the CDC, in 2022, 6.9% of adults and 1.3% of children in the United States reported experiencing long COVID in the past or currently.

Other organizations, like the WHO, report that between 10% to 20% of people with COVID-19 may go on to develop post-COVID-19 conditions.

Experts cannot predict the recovery from long COVID, although most people's symptoms do get better.

While anyone can develop long COVID-19, experts find that certain factors increase a person's risk. Some of these factors include :

• Hispanic ethnicity
• People with an underlying medical condition(s)
• People who experienced a more severe COVID-19 course
• People who did not get a COVID-19 vaccine

A Note on Gender and Sex Terminology

Verywell Health acknowledges that  sex and gender  are related concepts, but they are not the same. To accurately reflect our sources, this article uses terms like “female,” “male,” “woman,” and “man” as the sources use them.

Can You Become Reinfected With COVID?

Yes, you can get reinfected with COVID-19, meaning you can become infected with the virus, recover, and get infected again. This cycle can also repeat itself—so a person can get infected multiple times with COVID-19.

Besides time and support from loved ones, specific strategies to help you feel better as you recover from COVID-19 include the following.

Eating Healthy Foods

Even though you may have a poor appetite, it's crucial to continue eating nutrient-dense foods. Healthy foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals will help support your immune system and protect against muscle breakdown.

Try eating frequent small meals, with a goal of consuming 75 to 100 grams of protein daily. Protein sources include peanut or almond butter, meat, fish, chicken, eggs, beans, peas, lentils, nuts and seeds, and soy products (e.g., tofu and tempeh).

Also, be sure to incorporate fresh fruits, raw vegetables, and whole grains (e.g., oatmeal) into your daily meals, and avoid foods high in fat, salt, and sugar.

If your nutritional intake is poor, discuss supplementing with protein shakes or other nutritional drinks with a healthcare provider.

Drinking Lots of Fluids

Hydration is also essential to fighting off viral infections like COVID-19. Aim to drink 8 to 10 cups of water daily, even if you drink a few ounces every 15 minutes.

Avoid sweetened juices and soda containing sugar; instead, consider fruit-infused water or unsweetened tea.

Relieving Fever and Pain

If you have a fever, headache, or muscle or joint aches, consider taking an over-the-counter (OTC) medication like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) for pain or fever.

Precaution for OTC Medication

Due to potential adverse effects, not everyone can take Tylenol or NSAIDs. Only take these drugs after speaking with a healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your care.

Other home remedies to ease pain include applying an ice pack to your head or neck for a headache or placing a heating pad on sore muscles/joints.

During COVID-19 recovery, giving your body and mind time to rest and heal is important. Structure your day so that you can take frequent breaks and conserve energy.

For example, you might do one household chore and lie down for 20 minutes before starting the next chore. It is also sensible to outsource chores, such as having a friend or neighbor deliver your groceries or mow your lawn, if possible.

Likewise, if you are socializing or are caring for children, opt for activities that are less strenuous on your body, like watching a movie, playing board games, or taking short walks outside.

In the end, coping with a COVID-19 infection physically and emotionally varies from person to person. Be proactive in your care, and do not hesitate to contact a provider for specific guidance on nutrition or physical activity.

COVID-19 is a recent disease, and its nature (e.g., treatment and prevention) has changed since the early stages of the pandemic.

The good news is that most people recover from being sick from COVID-19. Hospitalizations and fatality rates from confirmed COVID-19 infections have decreased remarkably worldwide since 2020.

The specific timeline for recovering from COVID-19 varies based on several factors, like age and the presence of other health problems. All said, most people recover within two to four weeks unless they have a severe illness, in which case it may take up to 12 weeks.

Unfortunately, some people develop long COVID-19, when symptoms from a COVID-19 infection are present for three months or more. While experts believe that those with long COVID improve eventually, the highly variable symptoms can be debilitating.

If you (or a loved one) are recovering from a COVID-19 infection, establish routines that help conserve your energy and reach out to loved ones for support and encouragement.

Also, practice healthy lifestyle behaviors like eating a protein-rich diet, drinking plenty of water, and contacting your provider for medication guidance to help ease symptoms.

The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our  coronavirus news page .

McIntosh K, Gandhi RT. COVID-19: clinical features . In: UpToDate, Hirsch MS (Ed), Wolters Kluwer.

Santos JNV, Mendonça VA, Fernandes AC, et al. Recent advance analysis of recovery in hospitalized people with COVID-19: a systematic review . Int J Environ Res Public Health . 2022;19(21):14609. doi:10.3390/ijerph192114609

Taylor CA, Patel K, Patton ME, et al. COVID-19-associated hospitalizations among U.S. adults aged ≥65 Years - COVID-NET, 13 States, January-August 2023 . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep . 2023;72(40):1089-1094. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm7240a3

Engwall M, Törnbom K, Persson HC, Palstam A. Recovering from COVID-19 - a process characterised by uncertainty: a qualitative study . J Rehabil Med . 2022;54:jrm00326. doi:10.2340/jrm.v54.2739

Habtamu Tamiru D, Gedef Azene A, Wudie Tsegaye G, et al. Recovery from COVID-19 and its predictors in patients hospitalized at Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital Care and Treatment Center, a retrospective follow-up study, North West Ethiopia . Glob Health Epidemiol Genom . 2023;2023:5586353. doi:10.1155/2023/5586353

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Clinical overview of long COVID .

Jin YH, Cai L, Cheng ZS, et al. A rapid advice guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infected pneumonia (standard version) . Mil Med Res . 2020;7(1):4. doi:10.1186/s40779-020-0233-6

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19: CDC Yellow Book 2024 .

Thaweethai T, Jolley SE, Karlson EW, et al. Development of a definition of postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection . JAMA . 2023;329(22):1934-1946. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.8823.

World Health Organization. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): post COVID-19 condition

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC science and the public health approach to long COVID .

Centers for Disease Control and Infection. What is COVID-19 reinfection?

American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. Nutrition and hydration: quick facts for COVID-19 patients .

Horita N, Fukumoto T. Global case fatality rate from COVID-19 has decreased by 96.8% during 2.5 years of the pandemic . J Med Virol . 2023;95(1):e28231. doi:10.1002/jmv.28231

By Colleen Doherty, MD Dr. Doherty is a board-certified internist and writer living with multiple sclerosis. She is based in Chicago.

Record travel expected across the U.S. this Fourth of July weekend amid rising Covid cases

Airports around the United States are preparing for what could be the busiest Fourth of July travel season on record.

The nation's roads are no different. Traffic could reach never-before-seen volumes over the Independence Day holiday.

AAA projects almost 71-million people around the U.S. are expected to travel 50 miles or more away from home. AAA also says nearly 4.5-million of those will be Floridians , whether by plane or car.

At Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), passengers have come in waves all throughout Thursday morning. CBS12 News crews there saw waves of a lot of people at once and then waves of not a lot of people at all.

Record Breaking Travel

All and all, that just shows things have been running smoothly through the TSA lines. But records have been continuing to be set since last week.

TSA says a record-breaking 2.99 million passengers went through U.S. airports in a single day last week. The agency says it's expecting a new travel record this week.

Sunday and Monday are expected to be two of the busiest airport days, according to flight website “Hopper.”

Travelers at PBI Thursday, though, expect it to be an easy travel day.

“It’s going to run really smoothly,” said Patrick Kennedy, a Palm Beach County resident. “I expect it to be really easy.”

“Well, I know my flight is going to be packed, but I’m hoping I have a good flight to New York,” said Jessica Davis-Mullings, a St. Lucie County resident.

Hitting the Road

AAA projects a record 60.6-million people will travel by car over Independence Day week.

If you're planning on hitting the roads Thursday, “Inrix,” a provider of transportation data and insights, says the worst times to travel by car are between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

So, lots of records are being set both this week and last whether by air or by land and there's still the long weekend ahead.

But with the rise in travel, there's also the rise in Covid cases nationwide that travelers should keep in mind as they're in crowded places.

Covid Rising

Although individual cases are no longer being counted, the CDC says that infections are "growing or likely growing" in 44 states. Florida being one of them.

Infectious disease experts call this the ‘summer bump.' We’ve seen it happen every year since 2020. But you can take precautions if you're traveling Thursday or this weekend. To stop the virus' spread, experts recommend: 

• Wearing a mask or staying home if you don't feel well,
• Always washing your hands after using the restroom,
• Covering your mouth if you sneeze or cough.

They pointed out that after years of exposure, our bodies are more prepared to fight the virus.

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COVID-19 can surge throughout the year

At a glance.

Many respiratory virus illnesses peak during the winter due to environmental conditions and human behaviors. COVID-19 has peaks in the winter and also at other times of the year, including the summer, driven by new variants and decreasing immunity from previous infections and vaccinations. You can protect yourself from serious illness by staying up to date with vaccinations, getting treated if you have medical conditions that make you more likely to get very sick from COVID-19, and using other strategies outlined in CDC's respiratory virus guidance.

What CDC knows

In the United States, respiratory virus illnesses typically peak during the fall and winter. These peaks are due to several factors, including human behaviors and environmental conditions that can affect the ability of viruses to survive and spread.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, infections with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, have peaked during the winter and also surged at other times of the year. These periodic surges are due in part to the emergence of new variants and decreasing immunity from previous infections and vaccinations. Because the evolution of new variants remains unpredictable, SARS-CoV-2 is not a typical “winter” respiratory virus.

What CDC is doing

CDC continues to monitor seasonal trends of COVID-19 and the factors driving these trends, including the emergence of new variants , and to collaborate with state and local health departments, commercial laboratories, and global partners. On June 27, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), an independent advisory group to CDC, recommended that persons ≥6 months of age receive the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccines when they become available this fall.  

Why do many respiratory viruses spread more in the winter?

Many respiratory viruses have increased circulation during the winter. Factors that drive these seasonal patterns fall into a few broad categories:

• Environmental conditions : Temperature and humidity can affect the ability of viruses to survive and spread. Dry conditions, which are particularly common in winter, can cause water to evaporate more quickly from respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing, resulting in smaller particles that last longer in the air and travel longer distances. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, survives longer in colder temperatures, and increased spread has been associated with lower fall/winter temperatures.
• Immune susceptibility: Dry and cold air interfere with the ability of the body to sweep viruses out of the upper respiratory tract, which is the first line of the immune system's defense. At the population level, protection from prior infection and vaccination wanes over time. This results in more people being susceptible in the winter when respiratory viruses are spreading the most.
• Behavioral patterns : Spending more time indoors with less ventilation during the colder months, as well as holiday gatherings and travel, can increase spread. That's because viruses spread between people more easily indoors than outdoors in part because the concentration of these particles is often higher indoors. Similar conditions can also happen in summer when people spend more time indoors, keep windows closed while using air conditioning, and travel for summer vacations.

COVID-19 seasonality

COVID-19 activity tends to fluctuate with the seasons, meaning it has some seasonal patterns. Data from four years of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths show that COVID-19 has winter peaks (most recently in late December 2023 and early January 2024), but also summer peaks (most recently in July and August of 2023). There is no distinct COVID-19 season like there is for influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). While flu and RSV have a generally defined fall/winter seasonality and circulate at low levels in most parts of the United States in the summer, meaningful COVID-19 activity occurs at other times of the year.

Understanding when COVID-19 tends to peak helps to better tailor public health prevention strategies and recommendations, prepare our healthcare system, and allocate resources. That's especially important because the winter peak tends to overlap with those for flu, RSV, and many other viruses. Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine in the fall can help better protect you through the winter peak. People who might benefit from additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine this summer include those who are:

• 65 years of age and older,
• Moderately or severely immunocompromised or with underlying medical conditions,
• Living in long-term care facilities,
• Of any age and have never received COVID-19 vaccine, and
• Pregnant, especially in late pregnancy.

CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met on June 27 and recommended that persons ≥6 months of age receive the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccines when they become available this fall. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently selected strains for the vaccine based on currently circulating variants.

New variants affect patterns of COVID-19 activity

The emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants has been associated with COVID-19 surges, including an increase in the magnitude of winter peaks and additional peaks at other times of the year. Peaks in COVID-19 activity often, but not exclusively, occur in winter (blue bar in chart, below) and in summer (pink bar in chart). New variants, such as Delta and Omicron, contributed to several peaks.

Although the future pace of SARS-CoV-2 evolution is unpredictable, surges outside the winter season will likely continue as long as new variants emerge and immunity from previous infections and vaccinations decreases over time.

CDC continues to track the emergence of new variants through genomic sequencing , in collaboration with state and local health departments, commercial laboratories, and global partners. CDC also continues to monitor trends in COVID-19 to inform vaccine recommendations, and to publish weekly data so that the public can make informed decisions regarding their individual risk throughout the year.

Percentage of positive SARS-CoV-2 tests reported to the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) -- March 2020 to June 2024

This past winter, COVID-19 peaked in early January, declined rapidly in February and March, and by May 2024 was lower than at any point since March 2020. Over the past few weeks, some surveillance systems have shown small national increases in COVID-19; widespread as well as local surges are possible over the summer months. Although COVID-19 is not the threat it once was, it is still associated with thousands of hospitalizations and hundreds of deaths each week in the United States, and can lead to Long COVID .

Protect yourself and others with practical actions

During the summer and throughout the year, you can use many effective tools to prevent spreading COVID-19 or becoming seriously ill. CDC’s Respiratory Virus Guidance provides recommendations and information that can help people lower their risk from many common respiratory viral illnesses. These actions can help protect yourself and others from health risks caused by these viruses.

COVID-19 is here to stay, but taking simple actions will help protect you and your loved ones from infection and serious illness.

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