New Omicron Variant Prompts U.S. Travel Restrictions

If you have friends visiting from Southern Africa, you may have to wait longer to see them. The United States will restrict travel from South Africa and seven other countries starting today. The restrictions will apply to travelers from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, and Malawi. They do not apply to American citizens and permanent residents. Other countries, including the European Union, Britain, Japan, and Israel, have also set restrictions for air travelers arriving from southern Africa. 

The new policy is out of an abundance of caution in light of a new COVID-19 variant circulating in South Africa. On Friday, the White House arranged a meeting between U.S. and South African doctors to learn more about the new omicron variant of the coronavirus that is spreading in that region. 

According to Anthony S. Fauci, President Biden’s chief medical officer, the new variant has “some mutations” that “are raising some concern,” including “with regard to possibly transmissibility increase and possibly evasion of immune response.” He continues to urge unvaccinated Americans, including children, to get vaccinated.

Before you travel anywhere, Vacationer Magazine wants to make sure you take the proper precautions when choosing a travel destination or planning a trip. Travelers are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before traveling.

Source: The Washington Post