Travel increases your risk of getting COVID-19 and spreading it to others. Staying at home is the safest way to celebrate the holidays. However, if you have to travel we encourage you to follow these precautions to keep yourself and others safe.
When to delay or cancel your trip
Do not travel if you, your household members, or travel companions:
- are ill and have COVID-19 symptoms,
- have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or believe you may have it, or
- have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19 or suspects they have it (in the past 14 days).
More information is available from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention here.
Transportation risks
The type of transportation you take and the length of travel time can impact your risk of getting COVID-19. Here are the risk levels of travel.
Lowest risk
- Staying home is the best way to be protected from COVID-19
- Short car trips with your household members and no stops along the way
Higher risk
- Car or RV trips with people outside of your household
- Longer car or RV trips with one or more rest stops
- Overnight stays
- Long-distance trips on public transit, i.e. bus, train, or rideshare
- Direct flights
High risk
- Cruises and river boat trips
- Flights with layovers
Safety precautions
Here are some helpful safety measures to always keep in mind, especially during your holiday travels.
- Wear a mask in public settings. Be sure it covers your nose and mouth.
- Maintain safe social distancing from those you do not live with (6 feet apart).
- Avoid touching your face (eyes, nose, and mouth).
- Wash your hands as much as possible. If soap and water are unavailable, use hand sanitizer.
If you're feeling sick
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or other illnesses, avoid travelling, and being in close contact with others.
We also encourage you to speak with your COPC provider and get the care you need. Our TeleVisit services allow you to get the care you need without compromising the health and safety of others.
To learn more about COPC TeleVisits, click here.