Following a rash of travel-related COVID-19 cases, health officials are urging testing for travelers returning to Minnesota.
According to the Minnesota Department of Health, four Minnesotans have contracted the P.1. COVID variant after a stay at The Grand at Moon Palace in Cancun, Mexico. They were staying at the resort in mid-March.
The P.1. variant was first detected in Brazil.
Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Americans, urging no travel to Mexico due to high COVID-19 transmission.
Minnesota Health’s Deputy State Epidemiologist, Dr. Richard Danila, says anyone who has traveled internationally is recommended to test three to five days after their return, even if they have been vaccinated. They’re also advised to be on the lookout for symptoms.
Those who are not vaccinated are recommended to quarantine, in addition to testing, upon their return.
Health officials say travelers should wear face masks, physically distance, avoid crowds and wash hands frequently. Unvaccinated travelers should test one to three days before departure, and should not travel if sick or exposed to someone with COVID-19.
More information on COVID-19 variant strains can be found on Minnesota Health Department’s website. The CDC’s website will have information on travel precautions and testing.
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