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Ask a Travel Nerd: Can I Travel Without a COVID Vaccine?

Elina Geller

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

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Domestic travel for unvaccinated travelers

International travel for unvaccinated travelers, final thoughts on traveling without a covid vaccine.

Between constantly changing entry requirements, mandated quarantines, testing rules and vaccine provisions, traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t easy. If you’re not vaccinated, it's even harder. Some countries flat-out don’t admit unvaccinated travelers, while others require a mandatory quarantine and extra tests.

If you plan on traveling and aren't vaccinated, here’s what you need to know.

As recently as Jan. 12, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend delaying travel until you’re fully vaccinated.

Requirements are up to each city and state. For example, while Illinois doesn’t have statewide restrictions, its recommendations differ based on the daily COVID-19 case rates of the state the traveler is arriving from. Unvaccinated travelers arriving from states with higher case rates are encouraged to secure a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of travel to Illinois. At the city level, unvaccinated travelers going to Chicago are asked to get tested for COVID-19 before and after arrival and to quarantine upon arrival.

Meanwhile, all travelers 16 and older who enter California via Los Angeles International Airport, Van Nuys Airport or Los Angeles Union Station are required to fill out a City of Los Angeles Traveler Form, agreeing to follow CDC travel guidance — or face up to a $500 fine.

Other states may be more flexible and have no recommendations or requirements related to vaccination, quarantine, forms or testing for visitors.

Tips for traveling domestically without a vaccine

If the required time frame for getting a COVID-19 test ahead of travel is less than 24 hours, check if an urgent care center near you offers a rapid results option. In addition, check if a PCR and/or antigen test will be accepted. Generally, results from an antigen test can be provided faster. If you have insurance, the test may be covered.

Before heading to your intended destination, check the city and state requirements and recommendations, because they may differ (like Chicago and Illinois). Find out if your destination has any special requirements based on the state you’re arriving from.

Some businesses require proof of vaccination for entry. Be prepared to be turned away from restaurants, bars, stores and other establishments if this is the case.

Check if there are any ongoing testing requirements. For example, unvaccinated travelers staying in Puerto Rico longer than a week must submit weekly COVID-19 test results.

» Learn more: The majority of Americans plan to travel this year, according to recent NerdWallet study

Traveling internationally may present a greater number of obstacles, especially due to different systems and a potential language barrier. Some countries don't allow unvaccinated travelers to enter, period . For example, travel to the majority of European countries is possible only to those who are vaccinated. If you’re not vaccinated, make sure the country you want to visit will allow you entry.

In addition, before returning to the U.S., you’re required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within one day of the flight's departure. While abroad, you’ll need to go to a COVID-19 testing center. Unlike getting tested in the U.S., COVID-19 tests abroad aren't covered by insurance, so you'll need to budget for the out-of-pocket cost .

Furthermore, you should book your accommodations wisely. Does the hotel you want to stay at allow unvaccinated guests? Will you be able to dine at the hotel restaurant? Can you use the spa or gym facilities? These are important questions you’ll need to consider before booking an international hotel stay.

Scrutinize your access to activities and other places you’d like to visit during your trip, too, like restaurants and museums. On my recent trip to Germany, I had to show my proof of vaccination and identification in every bar, restaurant, shop and hotel I entered.

If you’re unvaccinated, you may be refused entry to all these places, which can ruin your trip.

Tips for traveling internationally without a vaccine

Get travel insurance with Cancel For Any Reason coverage since entry requirements are changing constantly. What happens if you book a nonrefundable flight and hotel, and a week before your departure, your destination stops allowing in unvaccinated travelers? If you have travel insurance with CFAR, you’ll be able to cancel your trip and get your nonrefundable deposits back so long as changes aren’t made at the last minute. For example, with CFAR coverage from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, "you may only be eligible if you purchase CFAR at the time of your base policy purchase, insure your full trip cost, and cancel more than 48 hours prior to departure," according to the company's website.

Confirm entry eligibility for your must-have experiences, like restaurants, museums, shopping malls or bars and clubs. Double-check that your hotel will allow you entry as well.

Research COVID-19 testing sites in the area before departure. Will you need to travel far to get your test? Consider travel time when making a test appointment.

Check if there's an app that your destination country uses that will accept your pre-departure negative COVID-19 test result. This step could make it easier to visit any bars, hotels, shops, restaurants and museums you’d like to check out.

Traveling domestically and internationally may pose a new set of challenges for those who are unvaccinated. Be sure to keep up to date with the latest requirements to make sure that your trip goes smoothly. International travel may result in many more difficulties, so if you’re not prepared to deal with all the uncertainties of being abroad, consider travel to a location within the U.S.

How to maximize your rewards

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Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

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75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

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Fact Sheet: Biden Administration Releases Additional Detail for Implementing a Safer, More Stringent International Air Travel   System

As we continue to work to protect people from COVID-19, today, the Biden Administration is releasing additional detail around implementation of the new international air travel policy requiring foreign national travelers to the United States to be fully vaccinated. This updated policy puts in place an international travel system that is stringent, consistent across the globe, and guided by public health. Starting on November 8, non-citizen, non-immigrant air travelers to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to fly to the U.S., with only limited exceptions. The updated travel guidelines also include new protocols around testing. To further strengthen protections, unvaccinated travelers – whether U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPRs), or the small number of excepted unvaccinated foreign nationals – will now need to test within one day of departure. Today, the Administration is releasing the following documents to implement these requirements: 1) a Presidential Proclamation to Advance the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic; 2) three Centers for Disease Control and  Prevention (CDC) Orders on vaccination, testing, and contact tracing; and 3) technical instructions to provide implementation details to the airlines and their passengers.  With science and public health as our guide, the United States has developed a new international air travel system that both enhances the safety of Americans here at home and enhances the safety of international air travel. The additional detail released today provides airlines and international air travelers with time to prepare for this new policy ahead of the November 8 implementation date. As previously announced, fully vaccinated foreign nationals will also be able to travel across the Northern and Southwest land borders for non-essential reasons, such as tourism, starting on November 8. Additional detail on amendments to restrictions with respect to land borders will be available in the coming days. Travelers can find full details about today’s air travel announcement on the CDC and Department of State websites.  A summary is below: Fully Vaccinated Status:

  • Starting on November 8, non-citizen, non-immigrant air travelers to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to fly to the U.S.

Proof of Vaccination:

  • For foreign nationals, proof of vaccination will be required – with very limited exceptions – to board the plane.
  • Match the name and date of birth to confirm the passenger is the same person reflected on the proof of vaccination;
  • Determine that the record was issued by an official source (e.g., public health agency, government agency) in the country where the vaccine was given;
  • Review the essential information for determining if the passenger meets CDC’s definition for fully vaccinated such as vaccine product, number of vaccine doses received, date(s) of administration, site (e.g., vaccination clinic, health care facility) of vaccination.
  • The Biden Administration will work closely with the airlines to ensure that these new requirements are implemented successfully.

Accepted Vaccines:

  • CDC has determined that for purposes of travel to the United States, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and World Health Organization (WHO) emergency use listed (EUL) vaccines.
  • Individuals can be considered fully vaccinated ≥2 weeks after receipt of the last dose if they have received any single dose of an FDA approved/authorized or WHO EUL approved single-dose series (i.e., Janssen), or any combination of two doses of an FDA approved/authorized or WHO emergency use listed COVID-19 two-dose series (i.e. mixing and matching).
  • More details are available in the CDC Annex here .

Enhanced Testing:

  • Previously, all travelers were required to produce a negative viral test result within three days of travel to the United States.
  • Both nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), such as a PCR test, and antigen tests qualify.
  • As announced in September, the new system tightens those requirements, so that unvaccinated U.S. Citizens and LPRs will need to provide a negative test taken within one day of traveling.
  • That means that all fully vaccinated U.S. Citizens and LPRs traveling to the United States should be prepared to present documentation of their vaccination status alongside their negative test result.
  • For those Americans who can show they are fully vaccinated, the same requirement currently in place will apply – they have to produce a negative test result within three days of travel.
  • For anyone traveling to the United States who cannot demonstrate proof of full vaccination, they will have to produce documentation of a negative test within one day of departure.

Requirements for Children:

  • Children under 18 are excepted from the vaccination requirement for foreign national travelers, given both the ineligibility of some younger children for vaccination, as well as the global variability in access to vaccination for older children who are eligible to be vaccinated.
  • Children between the ages of 2 and 17 are required to take a pre-departure test.
  • If traveling with a fully vaccinated adult, an unvaccinated child can test three days prior to departure (consistent with the timeline for fully vaccinated adults). If an unvaccinated child is traveling alone or with unvaccinated adults, they will have to test within one day of departure.

Limited Exceptions from the Vaccination Requirement:

  • There are a very limited set of exceptions from the vaccination requirement for foreign nationals. These include exceptions for children under 18, certain COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial participants, those with medical contraindications to the vaccines, those who need to travel for emergency or humanitarian reasons (with a US government-issued letter affirming the urgent need to travel), those who are traveling on non-tourist visas from countries with low-vaccine availability (as determined by the CDC), and other very narrow categories.
  • Those who receive an exception will generally be required to attest they will comply with applicable public health requirements, including, with very limited exceptions, a requirement that they be vaccinated in the U.S. if they intend to stay here for more than 60 days.

Contact Tracing:

  • The CDC is also issuing a Contact Tracing Order that requires all airlines flying into the United States to keep on hand – and promptly turn over to the CDC, when needed – contact information that will allow public health officials to follow up with inbound air travelers who are potentially infected or have been exposed to someone who is infected.
  • This is a critical public health measure both to prevent the introduction, transmission, and spread of new variants of COVID-19 as well as to add a critical prevention tool to address other public health threats.

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COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check with the Department of State for travel advisories.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

  • As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S.  arriving by air  or  arriving by land or sea  no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 
  • As of June 12, 2022,  people entering the U.S. no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test . 

U.S. citizens traveling to a country outside the U.S.

Find country-specific COVID-19 travel rules from the Department of State.

See the  CDC's COVID-19 guidance for safer international travel.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Caution October 19, 2023

Worldwide caution, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Update on Change to U.S. Travel Policy Requiring COVID-19 Vaccination for nonimmigrant travel

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Department of State to Process Domestic Visa Renewals in Limited Pilot Program

The Administration will end the COVID-19 vaccine requirements for international air travelers at the end of the day on May 11, the same day that the COVID-19 public health emergency ends. This means starting May 12, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers will no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. CDC’s Amended Order Implementing Presidential Proclamation on Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic will no longer be in effect when the Presidential Proclamation Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic is revoked .

Please see: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/05/01/the-biden-administration-will-end-covid-19-vaccination-requirements-for-federal-employees-contractors-international-travelers-head-start-educators-and-cms-certified-facilities/

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  • Fact Sheets

Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S.

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has required non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  On April 21, 2022, DHS announced that it would extend these requirements. In determining whether and when to rescind this order, DHS anticipates that it will take account of whether the vaccination requirement for non-U.S. air travelers remains in place.

These requirements apply to non-U.S. individuals who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals.

Effective November 8, 2021, new air travel requirements applied to many noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily. These travelers are also required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. All air travelers, including U.S. persons, must test negative for COVID-19 prior to departure. Limited exceptions apply. See  CDC guidance  for more details regarding air travel requirements.

Below is more information about what to know before you go, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about cross-border travel.

Entering the U.S. Through a Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Q. what are the requirements for travelers entering the united states through land poes.

A:  Before embarking on a trip to the United States, non-U.S. travelers should be prepared for the following:

  • Possess proof of an approved COVID-19 vaccination as outlined on the  CDC  website.
  • During border inspection, verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status. 
  • Bring a  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  compliant border crossing document, such as a valid passport (and visa if required), Trusted Traveler Program card, a Department of State-issued Border Crossing Card, Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Tribal Card when entering the country. Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should be prepared to present the WHTI-compliant document and any other documents requested by the CBP officer.

 Q. What are the requirements to enter the United States for children under the age of 18 who can't be vaccinated?

A:  Children under 18 years of age are excepted from the vaccination requirement at land and ferry POEs.

Q: Which vaccines/combination of vaccines will be accepted?

A:  Per CDC guidelines, all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and authorized vaccines, as well as all vaccines that have an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO), will be accepted.

Accepted Vaccines:

  • More details are available in CDC guidance  here .
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose COVID-19 vaccine;
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series;
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial;
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart.

Q. Is the United States requiring travelers to have a booster dose to be considered fully vaccinated for border entry purposes?

A:  No. The CDC guidance for “full vaccination” can be found here.

Q: Do U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land POEs and ferry terminals?

A:  No. Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation.

Q: Is pre- or at-arrival COVID testing required to enter the United States via land POEs or ferry terminals?

A: No, there is no COVID testing requirement to enter the United States via land POE or ferry terminals. In this respect, the requirement for entering by a land POE or ferry terminal differs from arrival via air, where there is a requirement to have a negative test result before departure.

Processing Changes Announced on January 22, 2022 

Q: new changes were recently announced. what changed on january 22.

A:  Since January 22, 2022, non-citizens who are not U.S. nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents have been required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States at land ports of entry and ferry terminals, whether for essential or nonessential purposes. Previously, DHS required that non-U.S. persons be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States for nonessential purposes.  Effective January 22, all non-U.S. individuals, to include essential travelers, must be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request. DHS announced an extension of this policy on April 21, 2022.

Q: Who is affected by the changes announced on January 22?

A: This requirement does not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. It applies to other noncitizens, such as a citizen of Mexico, Canada, or any other country seeking to enter the United States through a land port of entry or ferry terminal.

Q: Do U.S. citizens need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land port of entry or ferry terminals?

A: Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. Citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation. 

Q: What is essential travel?

A:  Under the prior policy, there was an exception from temporary travel restrictions for “essential travel.” Essential travel included travel to attend educational institutions, travel to work in the United States, travel for emergency response and public health purposes, and travel for lawful cross-border trade (e.g., commercial truckers). Under current policy, there is no exception for essential travel.

Q: Will there be any exemptions? 

A: While most non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States will need to be vaccinated, there is a narrow list of exemptions consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Order in the air travel context.

  • Certain categories of individuals on diplomatic or official foreign government travel as specified in the CDC Order
  • Children under 18 years of age;
  • Certain participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials as specified in the CDC Order;   
  • Individuals with medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine as specified in the CDC Order;
  • Individuals issued a humanitarian or emergency exception by the Secretary of Homeland Security;
  • Individuals with valid nonimmigrant visas (excluding B-1 [business] or B-2 [tourism] visas) who are citizens of a country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability, as specified in the CDC Order
  • Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age) as specified in the CDC Order; and
  • Individuals whose entry would be in the U.S. national interest, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Q: What documentation will be required to show vaccination status?

A:  Non-U.S. individuals are required to be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request regardless of the purpose of travel.

The current documentation requirement remains the same and is available on the CDC website . Documentation requirements for entry at land ports of entry and ferry terminals mirror those for entry by air.

Q: What happens if someone doesn’t have proof of vaccine status?

A: If non-U.S. individuals cannot present proof of vaccination upon request, they will not be admitted into the United States and will either be subject to removal or be allowed to withdraw their application for entry.

Q: Will incoming travelers be required to present COVID-19 test results?

A: There is no COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers at land border ports of entry, including ferry terminals.

Q: What does this mean for those who can't be vaccinated, either due to age or other health considerations? 

A: See CDC guidance for additional information on this topic. Note that the vaccine requirement does not apply to children under 18 years of age.

Q: Does this requirement apply to amateur and professional athletes?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions.

Q: Are commercial truckers required to be vaccinated?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions. These requirements also apply to bus drivers as well as rail and ferry operators.

Q. Do you expect border wait times to increase?

A:  As travelers navigate these new travel requirements, wait times may increase. Travelers should account for the possibility of longer than normal wait times and lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are kindly encouraged to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers can take advantage of innovative technology, such as facial biometrics and the CBP OneTM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Q: How is Customs and Border Protection staffing the ports of entry? 

A: CBP’s current staffing levels at ports of entry throughout the United States are commensurate with pre-pandemic levels. CBP has continued to hire and train new employees throughout the pandemic. CBP expects some travelers to be non-compliant with the proof of vaccination requirements, which may at times lead to an increase in border wait times. Although trade and travel facilitation remain a priority, we cannot compromise national security, which is our primary mission. CBP Office of Field Operations will continue to dedicate its finite resources to the processing of arriving traffic with emphasis on trade facilitation to ensure economic recovery.

Q: What happens if a vaccinated individual is traveling with an unvaccinated individual?  

A:  The unvaccinated individual (if 18 or over) would not be eligible for admission.

Q: If I am traveling for an essential reason but am not vaccinated can I still enter?

A:  No, if you are a non-U.S. individual. The policy announced on January 22, 2022 applies to both essential and non-essential travel by non-U.S. individual travelers. Since January 22, DHS has required that all inbound non-U.S. individuals crossing U.S. land or ferry POEs – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request.

Q: Are sea crew members on vessels required to have a COVID vaccine to disembark?

A:  Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 or D nonimmigrant visa are not excepted from COVID-19 vaccine requirements at the land border. This is a difference from the international air transportation context.

Entering the U.S. via Air Travel

Q: what are the covid vaccination requirements for air passengers to the united states  .

A:  According to CDC requirements [www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html | Link no longer valid], most noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily must be fully vaccinated prior to boarding a flight to the United States. These travelers are required to show proof of vaccination. A list of covered individuals is available on the CDC website.  

Q: What are the COVID testing requirements for air passengers to the United States?  

A:  Effective Sunday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. ET, CDC will no longer require pre-departure COVID-19 testing for U.S.-bound air travelers.

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U.S. Implements New Vaccine Rules for International Travel

As of november 8, all foreign nationals entering the united states must be fully vaccinated, and there are new rules for unvaccinated americans, too—here’s everything you need to know..

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U.S. Implements New Vaccine Rules for International Travel

No matter where foreign travelers are coming from, they will need to be vaxxed to enter the United States.

Photo by Shutterstock

There are now new rules for entering the United States from abroad, including for foreign nationals and for unvaccinated Americans. Effective November 8, all foreign nationals entering the United States, with few exceptions (such as children under 18), are now required to show proof of vaccination.

The vaccination rule effectively lifts a ban on international leisure travel for residents from the 26-nation European Schengen area, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Brazil, China, South Africa, and Iran who have been all but barred from entering the United States since March 2020. But it also now makes being vaccinated a requirement for all foreign nationals entering the United States, including those for whom vaccination status was not previously a requirement for entry.

“I have determined that it is in the interests of the United States to move away from the country-by-country restrictions previously applied during the COVID-19 pandemic and to adopt an air travel policy that relies primarily on vaccination to advance the safe resumption of international air travel to the United States,” President Joe Biden wrote in an October 25 presidential proclamation establishing the new order that “suspends the entry of unvaccinated noncitizen nonimmigrants, except in limited circumstances.”

The vaccine requirement for foreign nationals does not apply to U.S. citizens and residents and is in addition to the negative COVID test required for everyone, including U.S. citizens and residents, entering the United States.

New rules for unvaccinated Americans

Although U.S. citizens and residents are not required to be vaccinated to enter the United States from abroad, unvaccinated Americans do have slightly different COVID testing rules as of November 8.

Currently, all international passengers flying into the United States who are age two and older—including returning U.S. citizens and permanent residents—must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR, antigen, or approved home or self tests ) taken within three days prior to boarding their flight to the U.S.

Effective November 8, fully vaccinated Americans will continue to be held to this requirement, but unvaccinated Americans will need to be tested within 24 hours of boarding their flight to the U.S. (versus three days, making it even more of a last-minute scramble).

Details of the vaccine requirement for international travel

The CDC considers someone to be fully vaccinated as long as it has been 14 days since they have received the required single or double dose of vaccines approved either by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the World Health Organization (WHO), which includes the FDA-approved Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines and the WHO-authorized Oxford-AstraZeneca/Covishield, Sinopharm, and Sinovac vaccines.

Acceptable proof of vaccination includes a digital or paper vaccine certificate, including the United Kingdom National Health Service COVID Pass and the European Union Digital COVID Certificate. For those using a digital QR code, the code must link to information confirming that the proof of vaccination comes from an official immunization record.

The proof of vaccination must include the traveler’s full name and date of birth and must match the information on their passport or other travel documents. It also needs to have the official source that issued the record, such as the public health agency, government body, or other authorized vaccine provider, as well as the vaccine manufacturer and date(s) of inoculation.

What are the exceptions to the U.S. vaccine requirement?

First, those who do not have an exception to this requirement are people who are not vaccinated due to “religious reasons or other moral convictions,” according to the CDC order outlining the precise details of the vaccination requirement .

Official exceptions include:

  • Children under 18
  • Those with a documented medical reason that makes it inadvisable for them to receive a COVID-19 vaccine
  • Diplomats and foreign officials
  • U.S. Armed Forces members, their spouses, and children
  • Sea crew members

Also exempt are citizens of countries with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability , which as of October 25 includes 50 countries with vaccination rates below 10 percent. The CDC will update this list every 90 days. Travelers from these countries will need to have a valid nonimmigrant visa that is not a B-1 or B-2 visa.

Those who fall under one of the above exceptions and are age two and older must provide a negative COVID test from within one day prior to their departure flight to the U.S. or provide proof of having recovered from COVID within the past 90 days. They must also verify that they will be tested within three to five days after arriving in the U.S. and that they will quarantine for seven days.

U.S. opens Canada and Mexico land borders to vaccinated travelers

Another big change on November 8 is an opening up of U.S. land borders to leisure travel. Travelers from Canada and Mexico have been able to enter the United States by air but have been awaiting the freedom to travel to the U.S. by land since the land borders were closed to nonessential travel in March 2020—since then, only essential workers have been allowed to cross.

But starting November 8, fully vaccinated leisure travelers can enter the United States by land or ferry from Mexico and Canada, and they will not need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test as is required for international air arrivals into the United States.

“These travelers will be required to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request,” explained Matthew Davies, executive director of admissibility and passenger programs for U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, said during a November 2 media briefing.

>> Next: Airport Wait Times Likely to Climb as U.S. Reopens to International Travel

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Updates on U.S. Travel Policy Requiring Vaccination

Press Statement

Ned Price, Department Spokesperson

October 25, 2021

Today, the White House and CDC announced details of the new vaccination policy that will go into effect for international travelers on November 8.  As of that date, foreign national air travelers to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the United States.

This policy prioritizes public health, protecting U.S. citizens and residents as well as those who come to visit us.  Because it puts public health first, exceptions to this policy will be extremely limited:  including children under 18 and certain individuals in countries where vaccines are not yet readily accessible.

The updated travel guidelines also include new protocols around testing. To further strengthen protections, unvaccinated travelers – whether U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPRs), or the small number of excepted unvaccinated foreign nationals – will now need to test within one day of departure.

For those who are vaccinated, the testing requirement remains three days before their flight. Ensure that you are ready to travel internationally and return by reviewing the information at  COVID-19 Traveler Information (state.gov)  and at  cdc.gov .

This policy will allow the resumption of regular international travel for those who are fully vaccinated.  Families and friends can see each other again, and tourists can visit our national parks and famous landmarks.  This policy will further boost economic recovery across the United States, and we are pleased to see it go into effect on November 8.

U.S. Department of State

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The countries you can travel to without a vaccine

By Abigail Malbon

The 28 most popular countries you can travel to without a vaccine

Travel around the world is easier now, particularly for those who are fully vaccinated with an approved Covid vaccine – but some countries are allowing unvaccinated travellers to enter. Yet with restrictions constantly changing, how do the latest rules affect those who aren't fully vaccinated, and which countries are allowing tourists to enter if they're unvaccinated?

Where can I travel unvaccinated?

There are currently a number of countries that will allow visitors who have not been vaccinated to enter. A few of them are in Europe , and the others are slightly farther afield. We recommend always closely following UK health guidance, including having your Covid vaccine and booster if you are able to. Before travelling, you should regularly check government guidelines both for the country you might be considering visiting and for the UK when you return.

You can find the full list of countries allowing people to enter without a vaccine below:

Since 1 May 2022, unvaccinated travellers are able to visit the country without proof of a negative PCR or rapid antigen test. Passenger locator forms are also no longer required.

Arrivals may, however, be required to undergo a rapid Covid test on arrival. If you test positive on arrival in Greece, you (and those you are travelling with) will have to self-isolate for at least five days, either at home or in a hotel (this will be paid for by the Greek state). If you have no symptoms on day five you will be allowed to leave quarantine.

For holiday inspiration, see our guide to the best Greek Islands to visit .

Read the rules on travel to Greece .

2. Portugal and Madeira

Portugal ’s mainland and Madeira are open to travellers who have not been vaccinated, as long as they can prove they don't have coronavirus when they enter the country. To enter mainland Portugal, you will be required to show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 or an antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure for the country as well as complete and submit a traveller questionnaire before departure for the country. Self-administered tests are not accepted. Your temperature will also be screened on arrival.

To enter Madeira, you must register on the Madeira Safe travellers platform and download a QR code to present to airport staff on arrival. You must provide proof of a negative antigen test taken within 48 hours of departure that has been administered by a trained healthcare professional.

Your airline may deny boarding if you cannot show one of these documents when you check in for your flight. Check with your airline before you travel.

Read the rules on travel to Portugal .

A blue mind

Unvaccinated adult travellers can enter Spain if they are able to show proof of a negative test taken before entering the country. Previously, only fully vaccinated travellers aged 12 and over could enter Spain from the UK, but the destination has relaxed rules slightly, so it is now accepting negative PCR tests taken in the 72 hours before departure for the country or negative antigen tests taken in the 24 hours before departure for the country in lieu of full vaccination in adults. However, those who cannot meet either criteria will not be able to enter.

As of 1 February, you need to have received your second jab between 14 and 270 days before travel to Spain and the Canary Islands to be classed as fully vaccinated. Children aged 12-17 no longer need to show proof of a vaccine, but will need a negative PCR test to enter.

Read the rules on travel to Spain .

Unvaccinated travellers can enter Croatia without showing proof of a vaccine or negative test. The requirement to fill out a passenger locator form also no longer exists.

Read the rules on travel to Croatia .

Unvaccinated travellers to  Cyprus  must provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure for the country or an antigen test taken in the 24 hours before departure for the country. Travellers over 12 may then be asked to take another PCR test upon arrival at Larnaca or Paphos airports, and remain in isolation until the result comes back (this should take roughly three hours). This costs €15–€19 and must be paid for by the traveller.

Read the rules on travel to Cyprus .

If you are unvaccinated and over 12 years old, you must provide a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours or an antigen test result taken within 48 hours pre-departure for entry to France.

Read the rules on travel to France .

7. Maldives

All travellers to the Maldives must fill in a Traveller Declaration form in the 72 hours prior to departure. A PCR test is no longer required regardless of vaccination status.

Read the rules on travel to the Maldives .

Unvaccinated tourists entering Italy from the UK must show a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours before entering, or a negative lateral flow test taken within 48 hours before entering. The requirement to fill in a passenger locator form has now been lifted.

Read the rules on travel to Italy .

9. Dubai and United Arab Emirates

You do not have to be fully vaccinated to visit the UAE. Unvaccinated arrivals to the Emirates must present evidence of a negative PCR test taken 48 hours before departure. Unvaccinated travellers from the UK to Dubai may be required to have a Covid-19 PCR test on arrival.

Read the rules on travel to Dubai .

10. Slovenia

Unvaccinated British travellers to Slovenia must provide a Digital Passenger Locator Form, but are not required to show proof of a negative test or vaccination to enter.

You do not need to be fully vaccinated to visit Turkey, but you must be able to show proof of a negative PCR test (taken no more than 72 hours before entry), rapid antigen test (taken no more than 48 hours before entry), or proof of a recent recovery from Covid-19 within the last six months. Arrivals into the country should also show an online form completed 72 hours before travel and will be subject to a medical evaluation for symptoms of coronavirus, including temperature checks. Arrivals may be subject to random PCR testing on arrival.

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You must wear a face mask at all times while in an airport and for the duration of all flights, to and from Turkey.

Read the rules on travel to Turkey .

Mexico  does not currently require visitors to show a negative PCR test or quarantine on arrival. Resorts are also able to request guests fill in a health questionnaire on arrival.

Read the rules on travel to Mexico .

13. Ireland

If you are travelling to Ireland as of Sunday 6 March 2022, you do not need to show any proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, negative test or passenger locator form.

Read the rules on travel to Ireland .

As of Friday 1 April 2022, UK travellers visiting Sweden are no longer required to present a negative Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

15. Seychelles

Travellers are able to enter Seychelles regardless of vaccination status, but must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to departure for the country or a rapid antigen test done within 24 hours. There is no requirement to quarantine on arrival, but travellers must stay in approved accommodation.

16. Bahamas

Unvaccinated travellers aged 12 and over must show a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to the date of arrival to The Bahamas. All visitors of any age must submit a Bahamas Travel Health Visa Trip application. Seventeen-year-olds and under must be included in a parent or guardian’s profile.

All travellers to Egypt must complete a declaration form before entering the country. Unvaccinated travellers are required to show either a negative PCR test, taken no more than 72 hours before arrival in Egypt, or a rapid antigen test. Proof of Covid-19 recovery will not be accepted.

18. Cape Verde

You do not need to be fully vaccinated to enter Cape Verde, but you do need to be able to prove that you don't have Covid, either with a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before departure for the country or a lateral flow test taken 48 hours, when you check-in for your flight to Cape Verde.

19. Iceland

On 25 February 2022 all Covid restrictions were removed, including domestic rules. This means you do not need to test or show proof of vaccination status to enter the country.

20. Luxembourg

All travellers to Luxembourg need to fill in a passenger locator form before their flight. Those who are not vaccinated need to show proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before their flight, or a negative lateral flow test taken no more than 24 hours before. If you’re not fully vaccinated but have tested positive for Covid in the last year you can show proof of recovery to enter.

The travel restrictions upon entry into Norway have been lifted, which means that the same rules as before the pandemic now apply.

Read the rules on travel to Norway .

22. Sri Lanka

Covid travel insurance is mandatory for all visitors, and unvaccinated travellers need to show proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before their flight, or a negative lateral flow test taken no more than 48 hours before – be aware that self-swab tests are not recognised.

23. South Africa

Travellers to South Africa must present proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before departure for the country. You may be screened on arrival.

Read the rules on travel to South Africa .

Unvaccinated travellers to Belize must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before arrival, or a negative antigen test taken in the 48 hours before arrival. You may also opt to take a rapid test at the airport, at a cost of BZ$100 or US$50 (which must be paid in cash). If you test positive, you will be required to quarantine at your own cost. Foreign tourists are required to pay BZ$36 (US$18) for Belize Travel Health Insurance – this is mandatory even if you already have personal travel insurance and helps protect against incurred medical and non-medical expenses should you test positive for Covid during your stay in Belize.

There are no direct flights from the UK to Belize, so it's important to check the rules of the country you will be transiting through too.

25. Costa Rica

Since 1 April 2022 there have been no requirements for entry to Costa Rica in regards to coronavirus. However, the government acknowledges that these may be brought back at short notice, in which case travellers should always check guidance before their trip.

Since 6 April 2022, there have been no requirements for travellers from the UK to show either a Covid vaccination or Covid test when entering Cuba. However, random testing is still being carried out at airports, and anyone who tests positive will be moved to quarantine in a designated government health centre, at their own expense.

27. Denmark

There are no Covid-related requirements regarding test or self-isolation when entering Denmark.

Read the rules on travel to Denmark .

You do not need to show proof of vaccination to enter Monaco, however travellers over the age of 16 who are not fully vaccinated will need to provide either a negative result of a PCR or antigen test taken within the last 24 hours, or a certificate showing proof of recovery from Covid-19 (a positive PCR or antigen test, taken more than 11 days before arrival and within the last six months).

Do I have to quarantine when returning to the UK?

No. On 18 March 2022 all Covid travel rules within the UK were removed – which means that travellers do not need to test, quarantine or even fill in a passenger locator form , regardless of their vaccination status, upon return to the country.

US issues Mexico 'increased caution' warning for spring break travelers

us international travel for unvaccinated

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico has issued a spring break travel warning for Americans planning to visit the country. The message posted on Monday highlighted a range of potential safety threats in the popular destination like crime.

“U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark,” the advisory said, though it noted that crime can occur anywhere in Mexico. The U.S. State Department's travel advisory for the country notes various warning levels for different states, ranging from Level 1 (“exercise normal precautions") through 4 (“do not travel”).

The message also warned of other potential hazards like unregulated alcohol and pharmaceuticals. “Unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, and U.S. citizens have reported losing consciousness or becoming injured after consuming alcohol that was possibly tainted,” the advisory said. 

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates noted that counterfeit medication is “common” and could be ineffective or an incorrect strength. Those products may also have dangerous ingredients. “Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments,” the message said.

Why some travelers are skipping the US: 'You guys are not afraid of this?'

Learn more: Best travel insurance

The advisory warned of drowning and high private hospital prices, as well, among other risks. The message urged travelers to take precautions like keeping an eye on their drinks; staying with a group of friends in bars and clubs, while walking in dark areas or in taxis at night; and letting family and friends know about their travel plans.

Despite the warning, however, it noted that “the vast majority” of U.S. citizens visiting Mexico at spring break each year do so safely.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Watch CBS News

U.S. measles cases rise to 41, as CDC tallies infections now in 16 states

By Alexander Tin

Edited By Allison Elyse Gualtieri

Updated on: March 1, 2024 / 3:51 PM EST / CBS News

At least 41 cases of measles have been reported in the U.S. across 16 states so far this year, according to new weekly figures published Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This is up from 35 cases in 15 states reported to the CDC, as of Feb. 22. Michigan is the new state now included in CDC's tally.

The figures mark one of the steepest increases in recent history of the virus at this time of the year. It comes as experts worry the country could face a repeat of 2019's massive surge , which authorities at the time said could threaten the U.S. status of having eliminated the virus. 

"That is not a good slope of the curve, in terms of where we're going with measles," Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, head of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said Feb. 29 to a panel of the agency's advisers. 

Daskalakis said measles was preventable with safe and effective vaccines, warning that communities with low vaccination coverage were at the greatest risk.

Federal officials have voiced growing concern in recent weeks over the climb in measles cases, which come as vaccination coverage has declined in many parts of the country.

A CDC spokesperson confirmed Feb. 28 that it was working to support investigators in Florida , which has reported the most infections this year. The CDC is offering genotype sequencing from its laboratory, which in the past has helped trace links between cases. 

"We are a global community. As measles continues to increase in other parts of the world, these importations continue to happen. And when they land places where coverage is low, we are at risk for ongoing larger outbreaks," he said.

Which states have reported measles cases in 2024?

Local and state health authorities have publicly discussed the details of at least 39 confirmed or suspected cases of measles across 16 states: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York City, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington.

Pennsylvania was among the first states to report cases this year, with three infections reported from an outbreak that began there in 2023. On Feb. 27, authorities in Philadelphia announced the outbreak was officially over. 

New Jersey also later confirmed a case of measles in a resident of a county bordering Philadelphia, though officials said they were unable to find a direct link to that outbreak or another route of exposure.

Missouri's Clay County reported a measles case in a resident on Jan. 12 who the department said had traveled through Kansas City International Airport.

Virginia and Maryland each reported a case of measles in residents who had recently traveled through Dulles International Airport – one of the three major airports serving the Washington, D.C. region – following travel.

Georgia also reported a case of a resident on Jan. 18. A spokesperson for the state's health department said the case had returned from a trip in the Middle East. A second case was later confirmed in an unvaccinated family member.

New York City has also reported two cases of measles in residents so far this year. Authorities in the city believe both were cases following international travel, and have not been directly connected to each other.

California has tallied two measles cases this year. One was in Los Angeles County , following a flight from Istanbul. The other was reported a day later in San Diego , also after international travel.

Ohio has confirmed at least four cases so far. The first was announced in the Dayton area by authorities in Montgomery County on Feb. 3 , from a child who had recently traveled. Two more infections were later confirmed in nearby Miami County. A fourth case was later confirmed in Richland County near Cincinnati, which has not been linked to the other cases. A fifth potential case is being investigated, officials said on Feb. 20 in Clermont County.

Minnesota announced a case linked to international travel on Feb. 7 in Dakota County, near Minneapolis. Two more infections — in a sibling and a cousin of the original case — were later also confirmed in the state.

Arizona's Maricopa County confirmed a measles case on Feb. 10 after international travel. Two more infections that authorities linked to the original case have since been reported by the same county, which spans Phoenix.

Florida has reported the most cases of any state so far this year, after at least seven elementary school students were infected at an elementary school in Broward County. Two more cases were reported in the same county, near Miami. The state's records tally all nine of the cases in the county as having been infected in Florida. Another travel-related case was also announced on Feb. 23 in a resident of Polk County, between Orlando and Tampa. 

Louisiana said on Feb. 21 that two residents in the greater New Orleans area were diagnosed with measles, after returning from a trip outside of the state. 

Washington's Spokane County also announced a case on Feb. 21 . The county said their case was initially exposed to the virus out of the country.

Indiana reported a case on Feb. 24 in Lake County, near Chicago. Citing privacy concerns, the department has refused to release additional information.

Michigan's health department announced a case on Feb. 23 in Oakland County, north of Detroit, which they said was "associated with international travel."

What is driving the increase in measles cases in 2024?

Measles cases globally have been rising, with an increase in what the World Health Organization deems large or disruptive outbreaks in countries across the Eastern Mediterranean, Europe and Asia. The CDC has said this increased the share of unvaccinated travelers exposed to the virus and bringing it back to the U.S.

"We're a little bit concerned we're now in the same or similar position to what we see epidemiologically in the run up to that 2019 year, where suddenly we had this explosion of cases. And that's what's troubling us," Natasha Crowcroft, the WHO's senior technical adviser for measles and rubella, said Feb. 22 at a meeting of federal vaccine advisers.

Crowcroft warned efforts to catch up on measles vaccination rates have fallen behind other shots, she said, leaving more than half of countries at "high risk" of outbreaks this year.

"We've lost 7% in our coverage in low income countries. We're already way behind in low income countries, but they've fallen even further," said Crowcroft.

New outbreaks of measles have emerged in European countries that appeared to be ranking well in their overall rates of measles vaccinations, officials said, but harbored communities with dangerously large immunity gaps among younger children. That is different than in 2018 and 2019, when those countries saw many unvaccinated older children and adults infected too.

"What we're currently experiencing really is the results of accumulation of susceptible children who were not reached by immunization programs that were impacted by the COVID pandemic," said José Hagan of the WHO's European arm.

Among health departments in the U.S., officials say greater awareness of the need for measles vaccinations before traveling abroad is also needed.

"People traveling to let's say Africa or Southeast Asia may go to travel clinics and make sure they're up to date on their immunizations, but travelers going to the European region, from the United States, don't necessarily think that way," said Christine Hahn, medical director for the Idaho Division of Public Health. 

In 2023, Idaho faced its largest measles outbreak in decades after an unvaccinated resident was infected while traveling in Europe. Officials in Philadelphia say their large outbreak could also have been avoided by an immunization before travel.

"Our initial case, while too young to get routine vaccinations, would have been old enough to get an early vaccine for travel, and could have prevented our whole cluster had they done that," said Shara Epstein of the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Alexander Tin is a digital reporter for CBS News based in the Washington, D.C. bureau. He covers the Biden administration's public health agencies, including the federal response to infectious disease outbreaks like COVID-19.

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What to know about U.S. measles outbreaks ahead of spring break travel

Getting vaccinated is the best defense against measles, experts say.

It's spring break season, and many Cincinnatians are heading south to catch some sunshine during their time off. But is it possible you might catch something else on your trip?

New measles cases in the U.S. have raised alarm in recent weeks, and experts are worried cases could multiply as travel increases. There have been 41 cases of measles in the country this year, and nearly 25% of those are in Florida.  

"Vaccination is particularly important for those traveling outside the United States during spring break because measles is much more common in countries outside the U.S., including many popular travel destinations," said Dr. Michael Holliday of University of Cincinnati's University Health Services.

Measles outbreaks are more likely in areas where groups of people remain unvaccinated. Here’s how to protect yourself against the highly contagious disease this spring break.  

What is measles?

Measles is an airborne disease characterized by a high fever, a cough and a rash. About 1 in 5 measles cases in the U.S. results in hospitalization, and serious cases cause brain swelling and damage.

Measles spreads through the air through coughs and sneezes. If one person is infected, up to 90% of people surrounding them will also become infected if they are not immunized. People can spread measles to others from four days before a rash develops through four days after the rash appears, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

How many measles cases are there in Ohio?

There have been four confirmed cases of measles in Ohio this year, according to the Ohio Department of Health: two in Miami County, one in Montgomery County and one in Richland County.

Ohio’s first case of measles involved an unvaccinated child from Montgomery County traveling out of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. The cases in Montgomery and Miami counties are linked, according to Ken Gordon, a spokesperson for the state's health department. The Richland County case is unrelated.  

All four cases occurred in individuals who were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination status.

How many measles cases are there in Florida?

As of March 3, there were 10 confirmed cases of measles reported in Florida this year.  

Nine were among children in Broward County, home to Fort Lauderdale. Of those, seven were children from one elementary school where 33 students are unvaccinated, according to the school district.

The other case was travel-related from an adult in Polk County, which is between Tampa and Orlando.

Can I get the measles vaccine as an adult?

The CDC advises unvaccinated adults get at least one dose of the measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine. One dose is usually sufficient. However, the CDC recommends unvaccinated college students, healthcare personnel and international travelers get two doses separated by 28 days or more.  

Those who are pregnant, who previously experienced life-threatening allergies to the MMR vaccine or who have compromised immune systems due to disease or treatment should not be vaccinated .

How long does it take for the MMR vaccine to work?

It usually takes two to three weeks after vaccination for someone to become fully protected against measles, so the CDC advises those traveling internationally to get their shots at least two weeks before departure.  

However, even if your trip is less than two weeks away, you should still get the vaccine.

Where can I get the MMR vaccine?

You can schedule an MMR vaccine appointment at your local pharmacy, including CVS and Walgreens . Vaccines are covered by most insurance plans, and local health departments may be able to assist those who are uninsured.

When is spring break?

Cincinnati Public Schools' spring break is March 25-29.

Colleges and universities in and near Cincinnati also have scheduled spring breaks for March:

  • Xavier University : March 4-8.
  • Northern Kentucky University : March 4-9.
  • University of Cincinnati : March 11-17.
  • Miami University : March 25-31.

Do colleges require the MMR vaccine?

Most schools, including colleges and universities, require the MMR vaccine in order to attend.

Xavier, UC and Miami all require the MMR vaccine for enrollment, though some students are exempt for medical or non-medical reasons.

NKU does not require any immunizations for admission, according to the university's website . It does recommend several vaccines for students, including the MMR shot.

Can I get a measles vaccine on campus?

Routine immunizations are available at Miami's Health Services in Oxford, according to Alecia Lipton, university spokesperson. Students can make an appointment by calling 513-529-3000.

At UC, students can schedule an appointment with University Health Services.

Michigan health officials work to head off outbreak as measles cases emerge

us international travel for unvaccinated

Local and state health officials are urging the public to make sure they are up to date on the measles vaccine after three unrelated cases of the highly contagious disease have been confirmed this year in southeast Michigan, prompting fears of an outbreak.

Just one measles case triggers an "aggressive, timely, and prioritized public health response," according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The state experienced an outbreak in 2019 with 46 confirmed cases followed by zero cases until this year, according to the state health department .

None of the three measles cases reported in Michigan this year are connected, according to a news release from the state health department.

"Typically we would consider an outbreak to be several related cases where there was transmission or spread from one person to another," said Laraine Washer, medical director of infection prevention and epidemiology at University of Michigan Health. "If ... measles is introduced into a population of under or unvaccinated individuals, then that's where you'll see transmission."

While three cases may not seem like a lot, they can exponentially spread to more, a UM public health professor said.

"We saw in 2019 that in Michigan, this turned into several dozen cases of measles," said Abram Wagner, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the UM School of Public Health. "There have been states where this has turned into hundreds of cases of measles."

Being unvaccinated is the largest predictor of whether someone will contract measles during an outbreak, Wagner said, and there are pockets of the state with higher numbers of unvaccinated individuals. Last summer vaccination rates among Michigan's toddlers reached the lowest levels reported since 2010 , and several experts predicted this trend could fuel a resurgence in preventable diseases such as measles.

Roughly 68% of children between the ages of 19 and 36 months had received one dose of the MMR vaccine as of last month, down from 75% in January 2019, according to statewide data from the Michigan Care Improvement Registry. Nearly 73% of teens statewide had received both recommended MMR doses as of January, according to the same data, down from 77% in 2019.

"Right now, we are coming off of the COVID-19 pandemic, so there are still a lot of families which just haven't gotten all the vaccines that they were supposed to get for their kids during the pandemic," Wagner said.

The symptoms of measles — which include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, white spots in the mouth, and a red, raised, blotchy rash — typically begin within seven to 14 days but can appear as many as 21 days after exposure. Roughly one in every five people with measles will require hospitalization, and rarer, potentially fatal complications include pneumonia and encephalitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, and most people in the United States as children receive two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) shot, which protects against all three diseases, according to the CDC . Vaccination within 72 hours of exposure to measles can also prevent illness, according to the state health department.

The Detroit Health Department officials are encouraging people who may have been exposed to measles to call ahead before visiting a doctor, urgent care or emergency room to avoid putting others at risk and are working with county and state officials to track cases.

"We want everyone to stay safe and encourage all Detroiters to get vaccinated, especially children," said Claudia Richardson, medical director for the Detroit Health Department. "If you have questions, please talk to your health care provider or call the Health Department."

Michigan cases 2024

Michigan's latest measles cases are linked to international travel.

The first Michigan case of 2024 was confirmed in an Oakland County child last month and has been associated with international travel. Another case was reported Friday at the Trinity Health Ann Arbor Emergency Department in Ypsilanti involved an adult, also with a recent history of international travel. A Wayne County case also involved an adult who recently traveled internationally, and the health department was notified of the confirmed case on Saturday.

Measles was declared eliminated from the United States in 2000, meaning the disease was no longer constantly present, according to the CDC. However, travelers have continued to bring the disease into the country, causing outbreaks among unvaccinated people.

"Somebody goes abroad, contracts measles and then there can be a bit of an incubation period," UM's Wagner said. "If they are in a community where less than 95% of people are vaccinated, then it's very easy for them to start spreading the disease around them."

At least 95% of a given population must have two doses of measles vaccine to create herd immunity, according to the World Health Organization.

Public health officials do not believe the Oakland County case led to any exposures outside of the child's household, according to the state health department. The Washtenaw County Health Department said anyone in the Trinity Health Ann Arbor Emergency Department's triage and waiting areas between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Friday may have been exposed.

Contact tracing for the Wayne County case is ongoing and individuals who may have been exposed are being contacted, said Abdul El-Sayed, director of Wayne County’s Department of Health, Human and Veterans Services.

Wayne County's health department has identified four potential community exposure locations:

  • Feb. 27, 2-5:30 p.m., Beaumont Urgent Care at 23100 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn.
  • Feb. 27, 4-6:30 p.m., CVS Pharmacy, 2701 S. Telegraph Road, Dearborn.
  • Feb. 29, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Henry Ford GoHealth Urgent Care, 26763 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights.
  • Feb. 29, 3-8 p.m., Corewell Emergency Department, 18101 Oakland Blvd., Dearborn.

"If an individual knew that they were exposed to measles, the first question is whether they have immunity either through vaccination or prior disease," UM Health's Washer said. "If they have, there would be low concern about contracting measles."

People who are exposed and don't have any prior measles immunity may be required to isolate, Washer said. If people can't locate their vaccination records, they can take an antibody blood test to determine if they have any form of immunity, she added.

The virus can remain in the air where an infected person was present for up to two hours, so exposure can sometimes be hidden, according to the state health department. Infected individuals can also transmit the virus for up to four days before they start showing symptoms.

The most vulnerable populations are those without immunity, said Anita Shallal, associate medical director of infection prevention and control and antimicrobial stewardship at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. These can include people who chose not to get the vaccine or populations that cannot, including people with certain types of cancers, organ transplants and infants under the age of 1, Shallal wrote in an email.

"The general public should not be concerned, but those who are unvaccinated and able to receive the MMR vaccine should consider immunization," Shallal wrote.

People born before 1957 likely had measles and are considered immune, according to the CDC. But immunity may wane in people who are considered immunocompromised, such as those with organ or bone marrow transplants, UM Health's Washer said. If these people are exposed to measles they can be treated with antibody injections, Washer said.

The first dose of the MMR vaccine is recommended for children when they reach 12 months of age and the second dose when they turn 4 years old. Children younger than the age of 5 and pregnant people are also at high risk for measles-related complications, according to the CDC.

Declining vaccination rates

A decline in vaccination rates has driven concern about the potential spread of measles.

In the early 2000s, very few families whose students attended school requested vaccination waivers for philosophical, religious or medical reasons. As of 2014, to obtain such a waiver in Michigan, families must attend an education session on vaccines at their local health department. The proportion of Michigan's sixth and seventh graders getting waivers was 2.1% in 2009.

But the number spiked in 2010 to 10.6%. The percentage slowly declined, reaching 3.1% in 2015, before climbing again to hit 4.6% in 2022, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

The proportion of school waivers among kindergartners, sixth and seventh graders as well as new school entrants has followed a similar pattern, rising from 3.4% in 2009 to 8.6%, falling to a low point of 3.1% in 2015 and increasing to 4.8% in 2022.

The numbers alarmed public health officials, especially in 2015, when Disneyland in California reported an outbreak that spread to other states. Michigan avoided the outbreak, reporting one confirmed measles case in 2015, according to the state.

Embedded content: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2015/01/30/michigan-disease-outbreaks-spark-backlash/22626301/

About 61% of Michigan children in Wayne County between the ages of 19 and 36 months had received one dose of the MMR vaccine as of December 2023, according to the state health department , while roughly 74% of Wayne County teens between the ages of 13 and 17 have received two doses.

In Washtenaw, nearly 72% of children between 19 and 36 months and almost 69% of teens had received the age-appropriate dosage of the MMR vaccine as of December 2023, according to the state health department. Coverage rates in Oakland are similar , with roughly 70% of young children and teens having received at least one MMR shot as of December 2023, according to the State Health Department.

Detroit, Michigan's most populous city, is measured on its own, and 51% of children ages 19 to 36 months had received one dose of the MMR vaccine as of December 2023. Almost 71% of teens had received two doses at the end of last year, according to the state health department .

Some groups, such as Michigan for Vaccine Choice, a St. Clair Shores-based nonprofit that provides information about vaccines while supporting people who choose against getting vaccinated, attribute the vaccination decline to people educating themselves and doing more research.

"Three people in three different counties presented with a measles rash," Connie Johnson, a board member for Michigan for Vaccine Choice, wrote in an email on Wednesday. "What the health department fails to mention is that a recently vaccinated individual can shed virus, which can cause infection in others. Instead, a 'history of international travel' is always to blame."

The MMR vaccine injects live but weakened forms of the viruses, causing a harmless infection in the otherwise healthy individual, according to the CDC . The federal health authority does not list transmission as a risk of the MMR vaccine, but the CDC does warn that it may cause an infection that may be life-threatening in people with serious immune system problems. These people should not get the vaccine, according to the CDC.

"Measles is a mild infection, which lasts about a week and results in lifelong immunity," Johnson wrote. "As is the case with all infections, those who are susceptible or have immune deficiencies can become very sick."

But public health officials argue the lack of vaccination is the problem.

"The reason why these outbreaks are happening is because our ... public health system is breaking down," UM's Wagner said. "We're not getting enough people to be vaccinated, so then these pockets of measles are popping up."

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Can you still get measles if you’re vaccinated?

Health officials report increase in measles cases.

Kayla Clarke , Senior Web Producer

Michigan health officials are encouraging residents to make sure they’re vaccinated against measles.

Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that is spread by direct person-to-person contact and through the air. Measles is included in the MMR vaccine, which is usually given in childhood and protects people against measles, mumps, and rubella.

Just last month, Michigan reported its first case of measles since the 2019 outbreak . On Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, Michigan health officials said that a child in Oakland County has measles. The child’s case is believed to be linked to international travel and officials do not believe anyone outside of the child’s home was exposed to the virus.

On Sunday, March 3, 2024, Wayne County health officials reported the state’s second case of measles. The case is linked to international travel in an adult and is not connected to the Oakland County case. Later that day, Washtenaw County reported the state’s third case of measles.

“If you are not vaccinated for measles, get vaccinated as quickly as you can,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “We are seeing increased cases of measles abroad and outbreaks of measles across the United States in the setting of declining childhood vaccination rates. Now measles is in Michigan, and it’s important to make sure you protect yourself from this vaccine-preventable disease.”

The measles virus can live for up to two hours in the air where an infected person was present. Health officials said that 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed to measles will become infected. About one in five people who get measles will be hospitalized.

---> Michigan doctor says this disease is so dangerous it can blind you, destroy your intellect

What are the symptoms of measles?

The first symptoms of measles usually show up seven to 14 days after exposure, but they can take as long as 21 days to appear.

Symptoms include:

  • High fever (may spike to over 104˚F).
  • Runny nose.
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).

Two to three days after the initial symptoms begin, Koplik spots may appear inside the mouth. These are tiny white spots that show up on the inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth.

Three to five days after symptoms begin, the measles rash may appear. This is a rash that is red, raised, and blotchy. It usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

If you think you have measles, you should call the doctor’s office or the emergency room before you go there so they can prevent the virus from spreading.

What is the MMR vaccine?

The MMR vaccine is a weakened live virus vaccine. The weakened virus causes a harmless infection with very few, if any, symptoms. The person’s immune system learns how to fight these viruses, creating immunity.

There are two MMR vaccines available in the United States, M-M-R II and PRIORIX. There is also a MMRV vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox). The MMRV vaccine is only to be used in children who are 12 months through 12 years old.

Does the MMR vaccine work?

The MMR vaccine is considered very effective and safe.

People who were vaccinated according to the U.S. vaccination schedule are considered protected for life against measles and rubella. Immunity against mumps may decrease over time and another dose may be recommended during a mumps outbreak.

About three out of 100 people who get two doses of the MMR vaccine will get measles if they are exposed.

  • One dose of MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles, 78% effective against mumps, and 97% effective against rubella.
  • Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles and 88% effective against mumps.

Some people who get two doses of the MMR vaccine still get measles, mumps, or rubella if they are exposed. Experts aren’t sure why this happens, but it is believed that their immune systems didn’t respond as well as they should have or their immune system’s ability to fight the infection decreased over time. Symptoms are usually milder in vaccinated people.

Who should get the MMR vaccine?

The vaccine is usually given in childhood, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose at four to six years of age. Children can receive the vaccine earlier as long as the second dose is given at least 28 days after the first dose.

People who have “presumptive evidence of immunity” do not need to get vaccinated unless there is a mumps outbreak. During a mumps outbreak, health officials may recommend another dose of the MMR vaccine for people who are at risk of getting mumps.

The CDC said a person has presumptive immunity if they have written documentation proving they were vaccinated, laboratory tests confirming past infection, or if they were born before 1957. Before vaccines were available, nearly everyone was infected with measles, mumps, and rubella viruses during childhood. The majority of people born before 1957 were likely infected naturally.

Adults who do not have presumptive evidence of immunity should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Adults who are students at post-high school education institutions, healthcare personnel, or travel internationally, should get two doses.

More information about who should get the vaccine is available at cdc.gov/vaccines .

Who should not get the MMR vaccine?

Some people with weakened immune systems may not be able to receive the measles vaccine. So, when people eligible get vaccinated they are also helping to protect vulnerable people from being exposed to the illness.

The following people should not get the MMR vaccine or should wait, according to the CDC:

  • Has any severe, life-threatening allergies. A person who has ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction after a dose of MMR vaccine, or has a severe allergy to any part of this vaccine, may be advised not to be vaccinated. Ask your health care provider if you want information about vaccine components.
  • Is pregnant or thinks she might be pregnant. Pregnant women should wait to get MMR vaccine until after they are no longer pregnant. Women should avoid getting pregnant for at least 1 month after getting MMR vaccine.
  • Has a weakened immune system due to disease (such as cancer or HIV/AIDS) or medical treatments (such as radiation, immunotherapy, steroids, or chemotherapy).
  • Has a parent, brother, or sister with a history of immune system problems.
  • Has ever had a condition that makes them bruise or bleed easily.
  • Has recently had a blood transfusion or received other blood products. You might be advised to postpone MMR vaccination for 3 months or more.
  • Has tuberculosis.
  • Has gotten any other vaccines in the past 4 weeks. Live vaccines given too close together might not work as well.
  • Is not feeling well. A mild illness, such as a cold, is usually not a reason to postpone a vaccination. Someone who is moderately or severely ill should probably wait. Your doctor can advise you.

How can you check your vaccination status?

People who have been vaccinated in Michigan can check the immunization portal at mdhhsmiimmsportal.state.mi.us to see if their records are available.

To get your record, you must be 18 years of age or older and have or create a MiLogin account. You will have to upload an image of either your US passport, driver’s license, or state ID.

Where can you get the measles vaccine?

People looking to get the measles vaccine can contact their doctor or their local health department for more information. You can find contact information for your local health department at michigan.gov/mdhhs .

If you don’t have insurance or your insurance does not cover vaccines for your child, the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program might be able to help pay for the vaccines.

Copyright 2024 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.

About the Author:

Kayla clarke.

Kayla is a Web Producer for ClickOnDetroit. Before she joined the team in 2018 she worked at WILX in Lansing as a digital producer.

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The Palace Responds Again After Rumors Swirl Amid Concern Over the Princess of Wales

Prince William’s decision to bow out of a planned appearance this week, citing an undisclosed personal matter, fueled feverish speculation about his wife’s health online.

The side view of Catherine with a hat on surrounded by the backs of people.

By Steven Kurutz

The continued speculation over the health of Catherine, Princess of Wales — which was flamed on social media this week after Prince William canceled a planned appearance at the memorial service for his godfather, King Constantine of the Hellenes — caused Kensington Palace, once again, to break its silence on the matter.

In a statement, a spokesperson told ABC News on Thursday, “Kensington Palace made it clear in January the timelines of the Princess’s recovery and we’d only be providing significant updates. That guidance stands.”

The spokesperson reiterated the princess is “doing well.”

On Christmas Day, Catherine attended service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, Norfolk, England, wearing head-to-toe royal blue. She walked to church with her husband, Prince William, and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, much like she had in years past.

Greeting the gathered crowds and the cameras, “ She looked lovely for the occasion ,” said Town & Country.

The princess has not been seen in public since.

Three weeks later, on Jan. 17, Kensington Palace announced that Catherine, 42, formerly known as Kate Middleton, had been admitted to the London Clinic to undergo “a planned abdominal surgery .”

The surprise news about Catherine’s health was magnified by the fact that, just an hour later, the palace announced that King Charles III, 75, would receive treatment for an enlarged prostate the next week. Two of the most senior members of Britain’s royal family were now facing health trials.

As news started to return to normal — on Wednesday King Charles was photographed being driven from his home, Clarence House, and he has resumed some official business, including meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak — rumors began to surface again about the Princess of Wales. Although Prince William, 41, also scaled back his royal duties during his wife’s recuperation, this week, he bowed out of a planned appearance at a memorial service at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor for his godfather, King Constantine , who died in January 2023.

That led a palace source to address the latest twist in the saga, and perhaps try to stop the rumors, in language that did anything but. The princess, the source told People, “ continues to be doing well .”

William’s absence at the memorial, and the reason given by the palace — an undisclosed personal matter — only fueled continued speculation around Catherine’s health. Little is known about her medical procedure, leading to plenty of conjecture, concern and conspiracy theories.

What kind of surgery did Kate Middleton have?

That remains a mystery to the public. Abdominal surgery could be anything from an appendectomy to a gastrointestinal procedure. On Jan. 17, Kensington Palace said the surgery was successful. It did not offer details on Catherine’s diagnosis or prognosis, other than that her condition was “not cancerous.”

The palace added: “The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.”

The palace issued another statement at the end of the month, telling the public that Catherine had been discharged from the London Clinic.

Where is Kate Middleton?

At home, according to a statement. The palace said the princess would recuperate at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park after she left the hospital.

Her office added that she was “unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter.”

How is Kate’s family faring?

Prince William visited his wife shortly after her surgery and was photographed leaving the hospital . But according to People magazine, Catherine’s three children did not see their mother at the hospital. That follows the London Clinic’s visitor guidelines , which state that “we do not permit any children or babies to visit.” (Special requests must be approved by hospital staff.) Instead, the princess is said to have connected with her children over FaceTime.

The palace has called various conspiracy theories “total nonsense.”

The lack of information around Catherine has given rise to wild speculation about her health. A Spanish journalist named Concha Calleja claimed that she spoke with a source within the Royal Family. The source supposedly told Ms. Calleja that Catherine faced serious complications after surgery, requiring “drastic” actions to save her life.

“The decision was to put her in an induced coma,” Ms. Calleja told the Spanish news show Fiesta. “They had to intubate her.”

In its initial statement, Kensington Palace said it would provide updates on the princess only when there was “significant new information to share.” But the palace was moved to address Ms. Calleja’s claims, calling them “total nonsense” and “ ludicrous .”

Steven Kurutz covers cultural trends, social media and the world of design for The Times. More about Steven Kurutz

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