Why America Scrapped Its Pandemic Travel Bans
The coronavirus pandemic has wreaked havoc in countries all over the world. As the virus migrated from one country to another, governments moved to enact heavy travel bans to containment the spread of the virus which saw many of the affected countries having to shut their borders for months at a time.
However, as the world adjusts to trying to curb the spread of the virus, some countries are now beginning to lift the travel restrictions they put in place, and the US is amongst them. In this article, we’ll be looking at why America scrapped its pandemic travel bans and the challenges that come with re-opening its boarders.
What Are Travel Bans?
A travel ban is a restriction, usually imposed by governmental authorities, that prevents people from travelling to and from a particular country, or specific region. The purpose of such bans is to prevent the spread of a communicable disease, or to institute security measures such as in the wake of a terror attack.
Travel bans may be imposed on a temporary or permanent basis. Government authorities may decide to either ease travel restrictions gradually or scrap the bans altogether, depending upon the situation. In the case of the coronavirus pandemic, the US government decided to scrap its travel ban.
Why America Scrapped Its Ban
Before the coronavirus pandemic hit, America was already an open nation for anyone who respected its domain and laws. So it was not a surprise that as some countries resorted to imposing travel bans, the US federal government was more realistic in its approach.
The US government understood that the ultimate impact of travel bans and restrictions would be hugely disruptive in economic, trade, or business terms. The US is one of the world’s leading economies and large portions of the US economy depend on the ability to move goods and services, as well as capital and people, between the US and other countries.
The lifting of the travel ban was also seen as a way to slowly bring about a sense of normalcy for its citizens, both those living and those visiting the US. This was seen as an important step towards replenishing what has been lost during the pandemic, from community spirit to job opportunities.
What Challenges Come With Reopening Boarders?
The pandemic has caused an unprecedented disruption, and life will never be the same again; this includes adapting to the ‘new normal’, and for America that means instituting new measures at the boarders as it reopens its boarders to travel.
- Health Protocols
To protect its citizens and to prevent the virus from re-entering the US, the government has implemented new health protocols at the boarders. These include increased screenings, the requirement to wear face masks or coverings at all times, regular disinfection of airports and public spaces, and strict social distancing regulations.
- Travel Restrictions
Governments are also continuing to put in place travel restrictions which are intended to curb the spread of the virus. For example, previously announced border closures with neighbouring countries such as Canada and Mexico have been extended until at least August 21, 2020.
In addition, the US is continuing to institute travel restrictions from certain states with high coronavirus cases. It has also imposed restrictions on travel from Europe and some Asia Pacific countries.
- Detailed Quarantine Rules
The US government is also instituting detailed quarantine rules for travelers coming into the country. All travelers are required to adhere to a 14-day quarantine upon arrival.
- Health Insurance
To reduce financial strain and ensure travelers have access to health care should they become infected with the virus, travelers are advised to buy health insurance.
The lifting of travel bans by the US is just another step towards the economic recovery of the country. Of course, easing or lifting of the travel bans is dependant upon the containment of the virus and it will be some time before we may witness the return to normalcy in the way we travel and traverse the world.
With the massive influx of travelers entering the US, to ensure the safety of the people and to control the spread of COVID-19, strict protocols and regulations must be adhered to.
It is only by working together that the pandemic will eventually be brought under control and the US economy revived.
