As countries slowly reopen their borders, the World Health Organisation has laid down new guidelines amid the Delta variant threat. In a video shared by the UN, a WHO health official said that countries can manage travel safely if they ease curbs slowly. Many countries have resumed their international flights to boost their badly-hit travel industry.
Nations Should Open Up Travel Operations Gradually
Mike Ryan, executive director of WHO’s health emergencies programme warned that countries will not be able to revive their economies unless they get the COVID-19 cases out of their way. It is not a good idea to go from 10% normal travel to 100% travel overnight. Restarting operations in a phased manner can be a better idea. Here Are 7 Ways To Use Technology To Prepare For Safe Travel During The Pandemic.
WHO Statement on advancing the next series of studies to find the origins of the #COVID19 virus: https://t.co/fvBUw8ed5A
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) August 12, 2021
Travellers Must Follow COVID-19 Appropriate Behaviour
Travellers should adhere to guidelines required by governments and airlines and travel responsibly. They should wear their masks at all times and sanitise their hands frequently. Wear an N95 mask that covers your nose and mouth at all times inside any public vehicle or mode of transport especially when physical distancing is difficult. Your mask will help protect those around you in case you are infected, even if you are not showing symptoms. If you cannot get your hands on an N95 mask, do double masking for your safety.
Also read: Kerala Launches Bio-Bubble For Safe Travel Of Vaccinated Tourists; Here’s Everything To Know
Traveling safely during #COVID19 requires careful consideration and planning. @DrMikeRyan and Dr @mvankerkhove discuss how you can make safe travel-related decisions as the northern hemisphere summer continues ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/iItOhCJdeP
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) August 11, 2021
Receiving the vaccine that brings the hope of returning to the pre-COVID era. But does that mean you will be able to travel freely just because you are inoculated? And while several countries are welcoming vaccinated travellers without quarantine and testing requirements behaviors, social distancing and mask-wearing, remain. Interactions between people who are fully vaccinated are relatively low-risk for all parties. That said, you must be cautious and stay vigilant about risk while you interact with others during your travels.