CDC recommends preflight testing for those planning to fly internationally

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Mon, 2020-11-23 13:44 — mike kraft

CDC recommends preflight testing for those planning to fly internationally Agency says people should be tested before they fly and then after they complete travel. Lori Aratani Washington Post

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is recommending that those planning to travel internationally this season get tested for the novel coronavirus before and then again after their flights.

The new advice, released Saturday evening, comes just days after officials at the agency “strongly recommended” that people avoid traveling during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. The United States is grappling with a sharp spike in infections, and health officials fear that holiday travel could dramatically worsen the current situation. Total coronavirus infections in the United States have topped 12 million, and cases are approaching 200,000 in a day.

However, in an acknowledgment that some might still travel, the CDC says those who plan to fly internationally should consider getting tested one to three days before their flights and again three to five days after travel. In addition to getting tested after they’ve completed their travels, the CDC said, people should stay home for seven days — even if they test negative.

The agency however, did not address whether testing is recommended for those who are flying domestically.

While the CDC has previously encouraged people planning to fly to take steps to protect themselves and others, including washing their hands frequently, wearing masks and practicing social distancing, this is the first time the CDC has encouraged them to get tested.

“Testing before and after travel can reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19,” the agency said in the new recommendation. Travelers should take a viral test and not travel until they’ve received their results. If they test positive, they should immediately isolate, the agency said. ...

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