Way Ahead Update: Revised handbook and new COVID travel requirements

With the recent guidance changes the CDC has made as well as the changes to Smithsonian COVID programs and protocol, we have revised the Smithsonian’s COVID Way Ahead Handbook.

Please familiarize yourself with the new version and the different mitigations required at each COVID community level. The Handbook can be found on the Way Ahead page of the COVID website.

Please pay special attention to changes in the Travel section. There are no longer any additional restrictions or approvals required due to COVID for any COVID community level. All travelers are reminded that when on official travel, they shall follow Smithsonian guidance to the fullest extent possible, including the additional requirements if your destination is designated as Level 4 by the US State Department.

Travelers should remain COVID-conscientious before, during and after travel. Travelers should check their destination’s COVID requirements, particularly given that national, state, tribal, local, and territorial governments may have differing travel restrictions. Please remain flexible during travel as conditions and requirements could change.

Although not required, travelers should consider the following recommendations:

• Travelers should be up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccines before travel.
• Travelers should be tested for COVID-19 as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than 3 days) before travel.

COVID Cases Before or During Travel: Official travelers who are diagnosed with COVID may not travel for at least five days after exposure. This includes embarking on a scheduled trip and continuing an itinerary (or returning home) if already on travel.

Masking on Public Conveyance: Official travelers are required to follow the CDC recommendations regarding domestic and international travel. This includes wearing a mask on all public transportation and in transportation hubs.

If you have further questions, please consult the COVID Way Ahead Handbook and work with your supervisor and/or unit’s travel preparer. If unit travel managers have questions, please contact the OSHEM COVID Program at SI-CoronavirusInfo@si.edu.

Stay COVID Safe,

OSHEM COVID Program

s.si.edu/COVID-19

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