With the most wonderful time of the year almost upon us, many are gearing up for holiday travel. With its coastal charm and mild climate, Mexico is a popular destination for snowbirds and beach-goers alike.
However, the CDC is warning Americans of the risks that can accompany a trip to this COVID-19 hotspot. With coronavirus cases on the rise, the CDC states that a visit to Mexico could significantly increase your chances of catching and spreading the virus.
Unfortunately, with its relaxed protocols, many are eager to travel to Mexico this upcoming Yuletide season. In fact, visitors aren’t required to get tested for COVID-19 before entering the country, which is an enticing prospect for those taking a less cautious approach to the global pandemic.
Those who have traveled to Mexico during the coronavirus outbreak state that the country is taking all the necessary precautions, enforcing mask mandates, and working diligently to slow the spread.
Some even claim that they’d feel safer traveling to a remote yoga retreat in Mexico than they would at a Target in their city.
However, the medical contributor at ABC News says that going to even the most isolated places in Mexico doesn’t mean that you can “escape the virus.” Those who are ignoring the CDC’s clear warnings maintain that they’re moving forward with their travel plans because they feel comfortable with their individual risk and how Mexico is handling the pandemic. Yet, Mexico’s COVID-19 numbers would make most feel otherwise.
To date, Mexico has reported over one million coronavirus cases. Sadly, this has resulted in roughly 106,000 deaths. In August, the country had the third-highest death toll in the world, and the CDC fears that these figures will continue to surge due to holiday travel. Even more unsettling is that local authorities think there are disparities between actual cases and what’s being reported. With that said, though you may feel confident in the precautions you’re taking, the CDC stresses that no one is immune to catching the coronavirus.