The US Is Banning Travel From South Africa to Combat the New COVID-19 Variant

The South African variant, also known as the 501Y.V2 variant, is considered 50 percent more contagious and has already spread to 20 countries. So far, it has not been found in the US.

To further strengthen COVID-19 precautions, the CDC is signing an order today requiring masks on all airplanes, ferries, trains, buses, taxis, and in all ride-share vehicles. Another CDC rule takes effect tomorrow, requiring all incoming passengers on flights to the US to show a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of boarding.

Although Trump had tried to lift travel restrictions on Brazil, the UK, Ireland, and EU countries before leaving office, Biden quickly reversed that decision. “With the pandemic worsening and these more contagious variants emerging,” said Schuchat, “it’s not the time to lift restrictions on international travel.”