International Travel if you are NOT Fully Vaccinated
If you have not been fully vaccinated, the previous guidance is still in effect and you will need to follow the CDC guidelines that were previously provided:
- The country you are going to may require a test to enter the country. Please check to confirm.
- You will be REQUIRED to get a test prior to the flight back to the United States by the airlines. If you test positive, you will not be allowed to return until the isolation period is over.
- You will need to remain off work for 10 days after you return (7 days if you are tested on days 3-5 and the result is negative).
- You will need to coordinate your quarantine time off with your department leadership and the time off will require PTO.
Traveling in the U.S. or U.S. Territories
You are NOT required to quarantine when traveling to or from the United States, including Hawaii and Alaska, or any U.S. territories, including American Samoa, Guam, The Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These areas are not considered international travel.
The CDC adds, as long as precautions are taken, such as wearing a mask, fully vaccinated people can travel within the U.S. without getting tested for COVID-19 before traveling or self-quarantining after.
What about Business Travel?
While we are continuing to discourage business travel, we understand some travel is deemed necessary or essential to the operations of Cook Children's Health Care System. In these situations, business travel should be approved in advance by a company president, or VP or above.
Currently, no international travel for business will be approved by Cook Children's.
Cruise Ship and River Cruise Voyages
The CDC recommends all people avoid travel on cruise ships, including cruises, worldwide. “That's because the chance of getting COVID-19 on cruise ships is high since the virus appears to spread more easily between people in close quarters above cruise ships."
The CDC states avoiding cruises it is especially important that people with an increased risk of severe illness defer travel on cruise ships, including river cruises.
Currently, a quarantine remains for those who decide to go on a cruise, even if you are vaccinated.
You will need to self-quarantine after you return home and will not be able to work during this time.