Now that many people are traveling as usual, there is a small question in our minds, 'Do we still need to be careful about COVID-19?' In fact, your safety largely depends on whether you have taken the correct and latest COVID-19 vaccine. Let's see what you need to know when traveling within Sri Lanka or abroad. Whether you are traveling by plane, train, or car, following these simple precautions we will talk about can reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection for you and others.
When you travel after being fully vaccinated
If you have received the latest version of the COVID-19 vaccine and are up to date with your vaccinations, you are much less likely to get seriously ill with COVID-19 while traveling. Current vaccines, such as those from Pfizer, Moderna, and Novovax , have been updated to protect against the main strains of the virus that are currently circulating.
However, even if you are fully vaccinated, if you have a weakened immune system due to another medical condition or medication, it is best to talk to your doctor before traveling and ask what special precautions you should take.
Wearing a mask is not currently mandatory on public transportation like planes, buses, trains, and ships. But sometimes it's a good idea. Agencies like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend wearing a mask in areas with high rates of COVID-19 hospitalizations. If you are at high risk of serious illness if you get COVID, or if you live with someone who is, talk to your doctor about wearing a mask even in areas with moderate rates of COVID hospitalizations.
To find out what the COVID situation is where you are going, you can check with the health authorities in that area.
What if you are exposed to the virus or develop symptoms?
Imagine you've been exposed to the virus. Then, whether you're traveling or not, you need to follow these steps.
- Be sure to wear a face mask around others for 10 days .
- Get a COVID test at least 5 days after exposure.
- Stay away from people who could get severe COVID.
If you develop symptoms, get tested and stay home. If your test is positive , do these things:
- Stay home for 5 days and isolate yourself from other people in your household.
- If you have no symptoms, or if your symptoms have disappeared after 5 days, you can leave the house.
- However, wear a good quality face mask when around others for another 5 days after that.
- If you have a fever, stay home until the fever is completely gone for 24 hours without taking fever-reducing medication.
Is it risky for unvaccinated people to travel?
If you haven't been vaccinated against COVID-19, or if you haven't yet been fully protected (up to 2 weeks after getting vaccinated), traveling is a high-risk activity for you, as unvaccinated people are more likely to get the virus and spread it to others.
The most important thing is, don't travel anywhere if you have any of these conditions:
* If you feel sick
* If you have had a COVID test and are awaiting results
* If you have recently tested positive for COVID
* If you think you have been in contact with someone who has COVID
If you are traveling without completing your vaccinations, you can do these things to protect yourself and others:
- Get a COVID test 1-3 days before your trip.
- Wear a face mask on public transportation such as buses, trains, and at airports.
- Stay away from people who are not traveling with you.
- Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
It is wise to get a COVID test within 3-5 days after traveling.
Does the risk change depending on the mode of travel?
No matter where you go, being around people who aren't part of your household increases your risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. However, there are a few simple precautions you can take to stay safe when using different modes of transportation. Let's take a look at how.
| Transportation method | Precautions to be taken |
|---|---|
| Air Travel | The risk is low due to air filters on airplanes. However, wearing a face mask in crowded places like airports and on the plane provides additional protection. It is also a good idea to wipe down your seat and tray with a disinfectant wipe. |
| Personal Vehicle | This is the safest way. But if you are traveling with someone who is sick, both of you should wear a mask. Open the windows for good ventilation. Keep your hands clean when applying oil, and in public places. |
| Public transportation (bus/train) | The risk is higher in crowded places. Be sure to wear a face mask. If possible, travel during non-peak hours. Keep your distance from others. Avoid touching frequently touched surfaces. |
| Rideshare/Taxi (PickMe/Uber) | There is a risk of traveling with others in a closed vehicle. Wear a face mask. Keep the windows open. If possible, make contactless payments. |
| Cruise Ships | It is recommended to be up-to-date with vaccinations before boarding the ship, get tested if necessary, and postpone the trip if you are sick. It is also wise to wear a face mask in crowded areas on the ship. |
What to do if you get COVID-19 while traveling?
This is also something we need to think about in advance. Before you travel, check whether your health insurance covers emergency medical expenses in Sri Lanka or abroad . Otherwise, consider purchasing short-term travel insurance.
Imagine you test positive for COVID-19 while traveling. You may have to stay in isolation for a few more days than you planned, so keep in mind additional accommodation costs and flight ticket change costs.
If you are going abroad, find out in advance what the country's rules are regarding isolation and when you will be allowed to travel again.
Ultimately, getting an up-to-date COVID-19 vaccine can protect you from serious illness. But if you're worried about getting sick while traveling, talk to your family doctor . He or she can explain what other things you can do to stay safe.
Take-Home Message
- Always keep your COVID-19 vaccine up to date with the latest dose.
- Wearing a mask in crowded places like buses, trains, and airports is a great way to protect yourself.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water. If that's not possible, use hand sanitizer.
- If you are sick, have COVID symptoms, or have been in contact with someone who has COVID, do not travel.
- If you are traveling abroad, be well-informed about the rules and regulations of that country and the airline before you go.
- If you have any concerns about your health before traveling, be sure to talk to your doctor for advice.
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