Travel within the United States may require negative COVID-19 result if CDC implements contemplated changes
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently instituted new requirements for international travel (See New COVID-19 Travel Testing Order Set to Go into Effect Jan. 26). These new guidelines require that all passengers traveling into the United States have a recent, valid COVID-19 test showing that they are negative for the infection.
During a call with reporters Jan. 26, 2021, Marty Cetron, MD, CDC Director for Global Migration and Quarantine, indicated that the CDC is requiring even more stringent testing requirements for travelers. “In the President’s executive order we also have to look at the possible planning in domestic travel,” Cetron said. “These are conversations that are ongoing and looking at what the types and locations of testing might be. So this is another one of those ‘follow that space.’ We’re actively looking at it.”
The indication that testing could be considered for all domestic flights in addition to existing international requirements will be very impactful for clinical laboratories if instituted. The CDC has not yet officially released any new requirements, but many expect these requirements may be instituted soon.
Related Resources:
US Department of State: Briefing on New COVID Testing Requirements for International Travelers
