Updated Article:
Mexico Drops from 'High' Covid-19 Risk Level for Tourists
Mexico was recently taken off the CDC's "high" risk level for travel during the Covid-19 pandemic. This development has sparked renewed interest in traveling to Mexico, especially since it has some of the least restrictive border controls worldwide. Visitors to Mexico are not required to present a vaccine or test certificate.
However, the CDC advises travelers to have an up-to-date Covid-19 vaccine before visiting Level 3 destinations, like Mexico, as well as other popular tourist spots such as Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Malaysia, South Korea, and Thailand. It is also important to consider additional precautions, such as mask-wearing and personal health considerations, when planning a trip.
Level 3 Risk
In the new CDC system, Places with over 100 Covid-19 cases per 100,000 inhabitants within the past 28 days are considered Level 3 or "high" risk.
While Mexico was removed from this category, many countries in Europe, like France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Greece, Portugal, and Spain, remain in this category as of the writing of this article.
Changing Categories
Five destinations were moved to Level 2 or "moderate" risk on May 2nd, 20xx: Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Mexico, Taiwan, and Iran.
This shift is good news for Taiwan, which held a "low" risk status throughout the pandemic. While the country has loosened some travel restrictions in the past two months, leisure travel is not yet permitted.
South Korea, Brasil, Costa Rica, Malaysia, and Thailand remain Level 3 destinations.
Destinations By Category
You can check the CDC's risk levels for every destination on their travel advisory page. The CDC recommends avoiding international travel until fully vaccinated.
Unknown Risk
On May 2nd, 20xx, Egypt was moved to the "unknown" risk category by the CDC. This happens when missing data prevents the assessment of potential risks.
Other destinations moving to "unknown" risk level include Guinea and Paraguay. These places may have certain restrictions in place, so it's wise to check reliablest sources before planning travel.
Medical Perspective
According to Dr. Wen, a medical analyst from CNN and a professor in Health Policy and Management at the Milken Institute School of Public Health at the George Washington University, personal risk assessments should consider not just the transfer rate but also the precautions, destination, and actions upon arrival. The most important safety factor for travel is being fully vaccinated against Covid-19, as unvaccinated travelers are more likely to contract and spread the virus.
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Enrichment Data
Travel Advisories and Vaccination Requirements for Level 3 Destinations
- General Travel Health Notice: There are no COVID-19 travel health notices for Mexico indicating it as a Level 3 destination. However, it's essential to check the latest travel advisories and health guidelines before traveling.
- COVID-19 Testing: Some Level 3 destinations, like Mexico, require negative PCR test results before arrival with specific timeframes.
- Health Declarations and Quarantines: Certain destinations require travelers to complete health declarations and may impose quarantine measures upon their arrival.
It's essential to stay aware of travel health notices and guidelines, especially for Level 3 destinations. Travelers should also consider required vaccinations based on the destination's status and any other potential health risks. By taking precautions and researching ahead, travelers can plan their trips safely and enjoy their vacations with peace of mind.