WASHINGTON- The US State Department on Monday said it would issue “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisories for some 80 % of countries, as it warned citizens should “reconsider all travel abroad” due to Covid-19 risks.
The State Department said it is raising the alert level for a significant number of countries this week as it factors the CDC’s COVID data more heavily into its rating system.
In a statement, the State Department said,
“As travelers face ongoing risks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of State will begin updating its travel advisories this week to better reflect the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s science-based Travel Health Notices that outline current issues affecting travelers’ health,” the department said in a statement.
“Our advisories also take into account logistical factors, including in-country testing availability and current travel restrictions for U.S. citizens.”
The agency said approximately 80% of countries will now carry the “Do not travel” label, a level 4.
This update is expected to upgrade the travel advisory for dozens of countries to Level 4 advisory, other known as the Do Not Travel List.
The CDC’s map shows a majority, more than 80%, of countries should be avoided by Americans. Those countries include Canada, Mexico, and the UK.
The State Department said as the United States continues its fight against COVID-19, the virus “continues to pose an unprecedented risk to travelers.”
The global death toll from COVID-19 surpassed 3 million deaths on April 19.
Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions: This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel. Conditions in other countries may differ from those in the United States and may change at any time.
Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
Level 3 – Reconsider Travel: Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
Level 4 – Do Not Travel: This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. During an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance. The Department of State advises that U.S. citizens not travel to the country or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
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