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Do I need to get COVID-19 testing prior to flying internationally?

UPDATED as of January 1, 2021:

Per the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines:

The United States is among countries subject to Travel Restrictions and Information for Passengers Transiting Concerned Areas. This is based on the Malacañang Palace Memorandum issued on December 29, 2020 on the regulation of entry for travelers from or transiting through areas that have reported incidence of the new COVID-19 variant. Read more:

As of November 21, 2020, there is a revised Travel Health Notice system for COVID-19 released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that lists recommendations for testing before and after international air travel.

It is now recommended that international air travelers get tested with a viral test at least 1-3 days before their flight to limit spread during travel. They should also get tested 3-5 days after traveling, and stay at home for at least 7 days. However, if the traveler does not get tested, it is recommended that they stay home for at least 14 days.

Aside from getting testing, travels should also take steps to reduce exposures and avoid higher-risk activities for at least 14 days before traveling. If they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, have tested positive for COVID-19, have been around a person with COVID-19, or are waiting for the results of a COVID-19 viral test, travelers should delay local or international travel.

Furthermore, travelers flying internationally should check with each airline, transiting airport and final destination for the latest safety guidelines prior to departure.

Source: CDC

This article was written and edited by the Tayo editorial desk and has been reviewed by an independent panel of subject matter experts.

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