As fall quarter ends and students return back home for winter break, it is extremely important to be safe while traveling. Cases have been rising in the United States, and these holidays will impact the number of cases and if Covid-19 worsens or becomes better. In order to protect you and your loved ones, the CDC and other health experts have recommended guidelines for traveling. If you are leaving the state, make sure to check that state’s guidelines as each state may have different rules and regulations. Although it is recommended to avoid traveling, if it is essential for you to travel this holiday season following these suggestions will help keep you and others safe.
Before Traveling
Prior to leaving Isla Vista, it is extremely important to self isolate for up to 14 days to ensure you don’t contract Covid-19 yourself. Additionally, it is recommended to take a Covid-19 test before leaving. There are multiple asymptomatic testing locations in Isla Vista and by UCSB that are at no cost. UCSB’s testing locations will be open through December 11. Remember, false negatives can occur so do not take a negative Covid-19 test as a reason to not wear a mask and not social distance. If you have been exposed to someone with Covid-19 or are currently sick, immediately isolate and delay travel until it is safe for you to be around others.
Modes of Transportation
There are multiple ways to travel, including by plane, car, bus, or train. Depending on the distance between you and your location, some of these options may be more suitable than others. It is recommended to only travel by plane if you must, as you will have to go through security and spend prolonged periods of time in close proximity to others, especially if your flight is full. Airport terminals, especially large ones like LAX, deal with increased numbers of travelers during the holiday season. While viruses may not spread easily on planes, there are still chances to contract Covid-19 on a flight. Traveling by bus or train can remove some waiting time spent at airports, but still risk spreading Covid-19 if you cannot socially distance from others. Traveling by car is the safest option as long as it is with others from your household or with who you will be with over winter break. However, in order to avoid a cross-country road trip, driving to your location will be easiest if you live relatively close to Santa Barbara. In addition, making stops while driving can expose you to Covid-19.
When Traveling
While traveling, you might be exposed to Covid-19 through others. In order to protect yourself and others, don’t travel if you have received a positive Covid-19 test or have been in contact with someone who has within the past 14 days. In order to remain safe, please wear a mask and stay six feet apart from others. Wearing a mask is essential in protecting yourself and others, as it reduces to chances of transmission. If you must take your mask off at any point, be sure to put it back on as soon as possible. In addition to wearing a mask, make sure to wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Even once you have washed your hands, try to avoid touching your face, nose, eyes, and mouth in order to protect yourself. Wiping down surfaces you will be sitting on or touching with a disinfecting wipe prior to touching it can help reduce exposure to Covid-19.
While You’re There
While on winter break, it is imperative to avoid large gatherings, especially ones indoors, with people outside of your immediate household. If you are attending or hosting a gathering, making sure to wear a mask and social distance will help mitigate the spread of Covid-19. There are multiple ways to connect with others that do not require meeting them in person. When in doubt, virtual is always best. If you have plans to meet with family or others outside of your household, please consider attending virtually. Some relatives may be more susceptible to contracting the virus than you are, and it is important to keep that in mind. Even if you do not have symptoms or have a negative test result, it is best to limit in person interactions with those outside of your household. Stay at home whenever possible, and if you do leave your house please wear a mask and social distance.
Upon Arrival in Isla Vista
Once you return back to Isla Vista, it is important to take another Covid-19 test and self isolate for up to 14 days before taking another test. You may have been exposed to Covid-19 while traveling. If you receive two negative Covid-19 tests, you are free to resume normal activities. It is still recommended to wear a mask and social distance.
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