US State Department raising Covid alert level for most countries
The US is about to make it harder for Americans to head overseas on vacation.
The U.S. State Department will significantly increase its ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories to more than three-quarters of countries around the world.
That will more than triple the 34 countries currently listed as Level 4: ‘Do Not Travel.’
"This update will result in a significant increase in the number of countries at Level 4: Do Not Travel, to approximately 80% of countries worldwide," the department said.
That amounts to nearly 130 countries.
The White House hasn’t said when the new advisories will become effective.
The U.S. State Department is making the sweeping changes to ‘better reflect the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s science-based Travel Health Notices.’
Until now, the State Department’s travel advisories have differed to those issued by the CDC for some countries such as popular vacation destinations Mexico and the Bahamas.
"Our advisories also take into account logistical factors, including in-country testing availability and current travel restrictions for U.S. citizens," it said.
The Covid situation in many countries still represents ‘unprecedented risks to travelers.
"In light of those risks, the Department of State strongly recommends US citizens reconsider all travel abroad.”
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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