CDC Relaxes COVID Testing Travel Requirements

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has relaxed a COVID testing rule for travelers flying to the US.

Now, international travelers heading state-side no longer have to show a negative COVID test or proof of recovery from COVID-19 before boarding their flights.

Why? Because the pandemic has entered a "new phase," the CDC said. Since the order mandating negative COVID tests for travelers was put in place, effective vaccines and treatments have been developed and COVID immunity has increased.

"Each of these measures has contributed to lower risk of severe disease and death across the United States," the agency wrote in a press release. "As a result, this requirement which was needed at an earlier stage in the pandemic may be withdrawn."

Although the CDC has removed its testing requirements for travelers headed to the US, it was still recommending that all air travelers get tested within three days of their flight and avoid traveling if they are sick.

"CDC continues to evaluate the latest science and state of the pandemic and will reassess the need for a testing requirement if the situation changes," the agency said.

If you are concerned about your COVID-19 risk during or after travel, reach out to your health care provider.