As COVID-19 restrictions are gradually easing, many Canadians are planning to travel this summer. Here’s what you need to know if you are planning a trip.
What are the latest changes?
As of June 20, passengers no longer need to be fully vaccinated – with two doses of COVID-19 approved vaccine or one from Johnson & Johnson’s – to board a plane or train in Canada. The federal government is also lifting vaccination requirements for federally-employed workers, allowing airline and airport employees on unpaid leave due to their vaccination status to return to work. Ottawa will reinstate orders if the COVID-19 situation changes for the worse, according to Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc. Infections specialist Dr. Isaac Bogoch said it was “the right time” to end travel orders because they no longer serve their intended purpose of preventing the transmission of COVID-19 in transport. CLOCKS It’s time to abandon travel orders, says the expert:
“The time is right to end vaccination travel orders,” he said
It makes sense for Ottawa to abandon COVID-19 vaccine orders for travel, says infectious disease specialist Dr. Isaac Bogoch, noting that two doses do not block the transmission of Omicron.
What stays the same?
Vaccinated Canadians returning from abroad must meet the entry requirements, including the use of the ArriveCAN mobile application or desktop version, to submit travel and COVID-19 related information within 72 hours prior to their arrival in Canada. Unvaccinated people must meet the requirements of additional testing and quarantine otherwise they will face a fine of up to $ 5,000 or criminal prosecution. Masks remain mandatory for those boarding planes or trains.
Will this correct delays at the airport?
Some industry groups and politicians have blamed the recent chaos at some Canadian airports for COVID-related border restrictions, and government officials say delayed or canceled flights and long security lines are due to staff shortages. LeBlanc said the lifting of vaccination orders would not directly affect airport delays. However, he and Transport Minister Omar Algambra said the government had taken steps to address the problems, including hiring more security personnel and adding more customs kiosks.
What about monkey pox?
Health officials encourage Canadians take extra precautions, due to the potential threat of monkey pox if you travel to 31 countries, including the USA, the United Kingdom, Australia, Mexico, Spain and Germany. The “Level Two” notice, issued June 7 by the Public Health Service of Canada (PHAC), is one step below the recommendation to avoid unnecessary travel. It is rare to see outbreaks of the virus outside of West and Central Africa, but cases have been reported around the world in recent weeks. At least 123 have been confirmed in Canada. PHAC says anyone with symptoms or a diagnosis of smallpox should delay their journey and isolate themselves. The virus is known to cause indicative skin damage, but often initially appears as a flu-like illness. The agency says travelers may be subject to isolation or other measures to limit the spread of the virus upon arrival at their destination. He also warns that those going abroad could have limited access to proper care if they become ill and could face delays in returning home.
How do I protect myself?
Many precautions against COVID-19 are also effective against aphids, says pulmonologist Dr. Samir Gupta, although the latter is spread more through direct contact than through the air. “You really want to focus on preventing contact, washing your hands – even wearing gloves,” he told CBC News. However, using a mask is a good idea, as some studies have shown that the virus can spread through the air, he said. PHAC recommends that travelers consult a health professional or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before their trip. He also says that travelers can reduce the risk by being “especially careful” at large parties or gatherings. CLOCKS Precautions against smallpox in monkeys:
Doctor’s tips to avoid monkey pox while traveling
Hand washing and mask use are good precautions for travelers trying to avoid monkey pox, says pulmonologist Dr Samir Gupta.
When will my passport be renewed?
Long queues have become commonplace outside of passport offices BC to Montrealbecause of what Canada called an “unprecedented increase” in applications as travel reopens after two years of pandemic restrictions. Some people have had to reschedule trips due to congestion. Service Canada said it is brought 600 new employees to help. All passport service counters reopened last month and more were added to more than 300 centers. According to forecasts from early June, 75 percent of applicants will need to obtain their passport within 40 working days, according to a representative for Employment and Social Development in Canada. Ninety-six percent of those who apply in person at a niche site should receive theirs within 10 business days. From left, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra and Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos announce the changes in Ottawa. (Patrick Doyle / The Canadian Press)
