As new information about the vaccine has become available to the public, many Americans are itching to get out and explore. In an effort to fight back against the virus, the vaccine will be made available in stages, and Americans will hopefully be back to traveling within the year. 

In Maryland, the local government has decided to roll out the vaccine in three phases. As of March 30, we entered phase 2B and Marylanders who are 16 and older with underlying medical conditions qualify for the vaccine. All Marylanders 16 and older will be eligible for the vaccine by April 27. 

The CDC continues to update the public with information regarding the vaccine and travel restrictions. According to the CDC, fully vaccinated people will be able to travel within the United States without COVID testing or self-quarantining after their travels as long as they continue to take precautions. These precautions include wearing a mask, avoiding crowds, socially distancing and washing hands frequently. The CDC director, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, as quoted on the CDC website, said, “We continue to encourage every American to get vaccinated as soon as it’s their turn, so we can begin to safely take steps back to our everyday lives. Vaccines can help us return to the things we love about life, so we encourage every American to get vaccinated as soon as they have the opportunity.” 

In regard to international travel, Americans are permitted to travel to 90+ countries after being fully vaccinated. The CDC encourages citizens not to travel until after they’ve been fully vaccinated for a few months. Nevertheless, American travelers who have been vaccinated will be welcome in a multitude of countries beginning April 6, 2021. Some of those countries include: The Bahamas, Aruba, Barbados, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Ghana, Jamaica, Mexico and much more. The complete list can be found here.