The Government of Canada has reduced the travel health notice risk level to level two: practice enhanced health precautions. And furthermore, many countries are relaxing their covid-testing requirements on arriving travellers.
What are enhanced health precautions?
Enhanced health precautions sound a bit scary – but actually it’s normal for the Government of Canada to have several regions under enhanced travel precautions at any time. For most people, it’s enough to be aware of the risk, and to take normal travel health precautions like ensuring your shots are up to date, and that you practice good hygiene around food and drinking water. Some groups of travellers, like people who are immunocompromised or pregnant, may have to take extra steps, or will want to consider postponing their trip.
You can read more here about The Government of Canada’s recommended precautions against covid for travelers.
Do I need a covid test for international travel?
When planning your trip abroad, it’s more important than ever to check the entry and border requirements for your destination. Your airline or travel agent may have advice for you if you are travelling for leisure reasons. Or if you’re on a work trip, speak with your occupational health adviser.
Another reliable source of information is The Government of Canada’s travel health advisories.
You can also get advice from the government or the health service at your destination.
Country’s entry requirements relating to covid tests do vary. In some cases, everyone arriving will need to show evidence that they are not infected with covid-19. This can take the form of a certificate showing a negative result from a medically supervised covid-19 test taken within a specified time window before the flight’s scheduled departure.
Other countries want to see proof of vaccination, and only people who are not vaccinated need to test before their flight.
Whatever your vaccination status, we can help with a covid-19 testing service for international travellers.
Should I get travel vaccines before my trip abroad?
In some countries, travellers are at increased risk of exposure to pathogens that cause some unpleasant and dangerous diseases, such as meningitis, hepatitis and malaria. Fortunately, you can protect yourself by getting vaccinated, and with a few simple steps like enhanced handwashing and insect bite avoidance.
Before you travel, it’s a good idea to consult with a medical professional with a specific expertise in travel health. They can tell you about the risks at your destination, and give you advice on protecting yourself from illness during your trip. Make this appointment six to eight weeks before you travel – but if you don’t have that long, make an appointment anyway, as an experienced travel health nurse or pharmacist can provide an accelerated travel vaccine schedule, and advise on other ways to reduce your risk of infection.
We are now providing a travel vaccination service at our two Toronto travel clinics, and we would be very pleased to have you consult us!
What is my risk of getting sick while travelling?
During the pandemic, we’ve been used to changing advice and uncertain risk levels, and navigating these can be difficult. Everyone has their own level of tolerance for covid-19 risk, based on their health and that of their family. Whatever travel decisions you make, Canadian Travel Clinics is here for you with advice, covid tests for international travel and travel vaccinations.