US expands ‘Do Not Travel’ advisory to 80% of international locations amid pandemic

(NEXSTAR) — The U.S. Point out Department is “strongly” urging all Americans to rethink global travel, according to a push launch issued Monday.

In mild of “unprecedented risks” posed by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the office has introduced ideas to update its present journey advisories to improved replicate advice from the Centers for Condition Regulate and Prevention (CDC). In performing so, the office will develop its Stage 4 (Do Not Journey) advisory to approximately 80% of the world’s countries.

Even with this “significant increase” in nations shown at Degree 4, the State Department’s current advisories do not always suggest “a reassessment of the present-day well being situation” but rather the requirements for designating a Level 4 destination, according to the office.

The up-to-date advisories, which will start out showing this week, will reflect the CDC’S Travel Health and fitness notices and “existing epidemiological assessments” in addition to any risks the State Division deems to be a danger to the safety of U.S. tourists. COVID-prompted vacation limitations, as very well as COVID testing potential, will also be evaluated.

“As often, we are carefully checking problems about the world, and will often update our desired destination-distinct guidance to U.S. tourists as conditions evolve,” the press launch states.

Journey to the remaining 20% of the world’s international locations is nonetheless discouraged, the Point out Division implies.

The CDC, in the meantime, at present recommends all travelers hold off any domestic or worldwide excursions till thoroughly vaccinated. The company also lists in excess of 160 worldwide destinations under its personal Level 4 (COVID-19 extremely high) designation.

The Involved Press contributed to this report.