The CDC has reduced the travel risk alert for Jamaica and the Bahamas.

With the omicron variant spreading worldwide, travel conditions are rapidly evolving. Many countries are imposing new restrictions or even closing their borders just before the busy holiday season.

Recently, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated the risk level for two Caribbean destinations favored by American travelers. Jamaica and the Bahamas, previously at 'Level 3: High Level of COVID-19,' have now been adjusted to 'Level 2: Moderate Level of COVID-19.' Under Level 3, the CDC recommends that travelers be fully vaccinated and advises against nonessential travel for those who are unvaccinated.

The CDC's recommendations remain largely the same at Level 2, indicating that unvaccinated travelers who are at a higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 should refrain from nonessential travel to these locations. If travel is necessary and concerns persist, consulting a doctor is advised.

This classification is based on the number of new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 individuals over the last 28 days, along with the trend of new cases (whether they are increasing, decreasing, or stable). Level 3 warnings indicate regions reporting between 100 and 500 new cases per 100,000 people, while Level 2 pertains to those with 50 to 99 cases per 100,000. Further details on each level's definitions can be found on the CDC website.

The U.S. Department of State maintains a list of travel advisories pertaining to COVID-19, and currently, both Jamaica and the Bahamas are classified as 'Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.'

If you’re planning a visit to Jamaica or the Bahamas based on the CDC's advisory, here are some important details to consider.

Travelers who are fully vaccinated and staying outside of the 'resilient corridors' in Jamaica won't need to quarantine upon arrival if they present a negative PCR test taken within three days before departure. All travelers aged 12 and over must provide a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken within three days prior to arrival, along with a travel authorization form. For the latest information on travel requirements to Jamaica, refer to here.

Americans are permitted to visit the Bahamas, but every visitor over the age of 2 must present a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test taken within five days of arrival, regardless of vaccination status.

Unvaccinated travelers aged 12 and older must take a PCR test, including those between 2 to 11 years old, as the government has specified that only RT-PCR tests will be accepted (children under 2 are exempt). Negative test results must be submitted when applying for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa. For the latest updates on travel requirements to the Bahamas, check here.