Is it safe to travel after getting vaccinated?

As coronavirus vaccines are becoming more widely available, several countries are opening up to fully inoculated travellers. With growing tourist places opening up, many people are eager to start planning their first post-pandemic trips.

Moreover, countries are once again welcoming international visitors too. Though, some with unique rules for vaccinated travellers. But there’s still a lot to consider before deciding to travel to another part of the world.

Travellers almost always have to be fully vaccinated — which is commonly defined as two weeks following the last required dose. Whereas, several places allow travel the same day as a second shot. 

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However, does this mean that it is perfectly safe to travel once one is fully vaccinated? And can we do away with all the masks and social distancing? Here’s everything you need to know about dos and don’ts for vaccinated travellers.

In updated guidance, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said fully vaccinated people can travel but should still take precautions.

So travellers should read the fine print before booking a trip abroad, which includes understanding COVID-19 protocols that may be stricter than what’s required at home. 

To be clear, vaccinated travellers can still contract coronavirus infection and possibly transmit it. Hence, there is a list of things one should keep in mind before travelling:

Dos and Don’ts for Fully Vaccinated Travellers

• Fully vaccinated people should continue to take COVID-19 precautions while travelling internationally and within the country too. This includes wearing a mask, avoiding large crowds, social distancing, and washing hands frequently.
• The CDC has asked to avoid any kind of gatherings in tourist places. So, if you are going out sightseeing, be sure that you visit when the crowd is relatively less.
• Many places have opened up for vaccinated travellers only. Interactions between people who are fully vaccinated are relatively low-risk for all parties. That said, you must be cautious and stay vigilant about risk while you interact with others during your travels.
• Are you wondering if you can travel with others on tourist buses? Experts say that if you have taken both doses of vaccine, you could safely gather indoors in small groups. The new CDC guidelines say that vaccinated people can host small gatherings with other fully vaccinated people.
• Experts suggest that it is safer for vaccinated people to travel within the country. Domestic travel is likely safer than international travel at this point.

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