dod travel risk assessment

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Learn about your destination

Take 90 seconds for safer travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Official websites use .gov

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

last updated March 13, 2024 6:00 PM EST

Coronavirus: Latest DoD Guidance

The Defense Department continually provides information and resources on a variety of coronavirus-related subjects for members of the DOD community and the general public. For vaccine guidance information, please see the section at the bottom of this page.

I want information on

Civilian personnel guidance.

March 17, 2022

see April 6, 2022 release "Consolidated Department of Defense Coronavirus Disease 2019 Force Health Protection Guidance"

Oct. 4, 2021

May 7, 2021

Nov. 30, 2020

Oct. 27, 2020

Sept. 14, 2020

May 6, 2020

March 30, 2020

March 8, 2020

Defense Industrial Base

April 4, 2022

Updated: see April 4, 2022 Infographic

Feb. 23, 2021

Jan. 14, 2021

March 20, 2020

Elective Surgery

May 21, 2020

May 20, 2020

Supersedes March 24 memo

May 19, 2020

March 24, 2020

Superseded by May 19 memo

Force Health Protection Guidance

Rescinds FHP Revision 5 , dated March 24, 2023

July 26, 2023

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance – Revision 4 , dated Jan. 30, 2023

Rescinded, see July 26, 2023 USD(P&R) Memo “Force Health Protection Guidance-Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Other Infectious Respiratory Diseases”

March 24, 2023

Accompanying press release, Jan. 31, 2023

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 3 , dated Aug. 29, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance Revision 5, dated March 24, 2023

Jan. 30, 2023

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 2 , dated Aug. 8, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 4 , dated Jan. 30, 2023

Aug. 29, 2022

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance-Revision 1 , dated June 29, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance-Revision 3 , dated Aug. 29, 2022

Aug. 8, 2022

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 1 , dated June 29, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 3 , dated Aug. 29, 2022

Accompanying press release, July 7, 2022

Amends Consolidated FHP Guidance , dated April 4, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 2 , dated Aug. 8, 2022

June 29, 2022

Consolidates, incorporates, and rescinds multiple policies and guidances

Accompanying press release, April 6, 2022

Updated, see Consolidated FHP Guidance - Revision 1 , dated June 29, 2022

Consolidates, incorporates, and rescinds multiple previously issued policies and guidances

Updated: see “Consolidated DoD Coronavirus Disease 2019 Force Health Protection Guidance - Revision 1”, June 29, 2022

April 6, 2022

Department of Defense Guidance for Personnel Traveling During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Supplements (Supplement 18) Revision 1

Supplements Secretary of Defense Memorandum

Rescinds and replaces (Supplement 20)

Rescinds and replaces (Supplement 16) Revision 1

Jan. 11, 2022

Department of Defense Guidance for Protecting All Personnel in DOD Workplaces During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Rescinds and replaces (Supplement 18)

Supplemented by (Supplement 20) Revision 1

Jan. 7, 2022

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Labratory Testing Services

Rescinds and replaces (Supplement 15) Revision 2

Dec. 30, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Attestation, Screening Testing, and Vaccination Verification

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 23, Revision 2

Supplemented by 18-1 (Jan. 7, 2022 release)

Dec. 20, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Attestation, Screening Testing, and Vaccination Verification (Updated)

(corrected copy of Oct. 29 memo )

Rescinded and replaced; see Force Health Protection Guidance Supplement 23, Revision 3

Nov. 15, 2021

(for corrected copy of Oct. 29 memo, see Nov. 15 release )

Rescinded and replaced; see Force Health Protection Supplement 15, Revision 3

Nov. 1, 2021

Rescinded and replaced: see Force Health Protection Guidance Supplement 23, Revision 2

Oct. 18, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Attestation and Screening Testing for Unvaccinated Personnel

DD Form 3150 (Certification of Vaccination)

Rescinded: see Force Health Protection Guidance Supplement 23, Revision 1

Sept. 7, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Surveillance and Screening Testing

Rescinds Supplement 11

July 21, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Laboratory Testing Services

Rescinds Supplement 15, Revision 1

complemented by Supplement 22

July 2, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for the Use of Masks, Personal Protective Equipment, and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds Supplement 17

Supplements Secretary of Defense Feb. 4, 2021 Memorandum, “Use of Masks and Other Public Health Measures”

Supplements Deputy Secretary of Defense May 13, 2021 Memorandum, “Updated Mask Guidelines for Vaccinated Persons”

Rescinded; see March 1, 2022, USD(P&R) memo “Updated Guidance for Mask and Screening Testing for all Department of Defense Installations and Other Facilities”

June 22, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Deployment and Redeployment of Individuals and Units During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 16

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 20, Revision 1 (Jan. 11, 2022 release)

May 4, 2021

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 14

April 12, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Movement and Medical Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients, Symptomatic Persons Under Investigation, or Persons Potentially Exposed to the Coronavirus Disease 2019

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 5

March 25, 2021

Department of Defense Guidance for Protecting All Personnel in Department of Defense Workplaces During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds Supplement 8

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 18, Revision 1 (Jan. 7, 2022 release)

March 17, 2021

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 7

Rescinded, see Supplement 17, Revision 1

Department of Defense Guidance for Deployment and Redeployment of Individuals and Units during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds Supplement 9

Rescinded; see Supplement 16 - Revision 1

March 16, 2021

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 15

March 15, 2021

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 15, Revision-1

Jan. 11, 2021

Supplements requirements in Supplement 8

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 12

Rescinds and replaces Supplement 1

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 20

Dec. 29, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Clinical Laboratory Diagnostic Testing Services

Rescinds Supplement 10

Rescinded; see Supplement 15

Aug. 24, 2020

Rescinds Supplement 4

Rescinded; see Supplement 14

Aug. 6, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Surveillance and Screening with Testing

Rescinded; see Supplement 22

June 11, 2020

Rescinds Supplement 6

Rescinded; see Supplement 13

Department of Defense Guidance for Deployment and Redeployment of Individuals and Units During the Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinded; see Supplement 16

May 26, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Protecting Personnel in Workplaces During the Response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Requirements supplemented in Supplement 14

Rescinded; see Supplement 18

April 13, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Use of Cloth Face Coverings, Personal Protective Equipment, and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Rescinds Supplement 3

Rescinded and replaced, see Supplement 17

April 8, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Coronavirus Disease 2019 Laboratory Testing Diagnostic Services

Rescinded; see Supplement 10

April 7, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Movement and Medical Treatment of COVID-19 Patients, Symptomatic Persons Under Investigation, or Potentially Exposed COVID-19 Persons

Rescinded and replaced; see Supplement 21

Department of Defense Guidance for Personnel Traveling During the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak

Rescinded; see Supplement 12

March 11, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for the Use of Personal Protective Equipment and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Outbreak

Rescinded; see Supplement 7

March 10, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Military Installation Commanders' Risk-Based Measured Responses to the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak

Rescinded; see April 29, 2021 memo "Guidance for Commanders on Risk-based Responses and Implementation of the Health Protection Condition Framework"

Feb. 25, 2020

Department of Defense Guidance for Personnel Returning from China During the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak

Feb. 7, 2020

Jan. 30, 2020

General Guidance

April 18, 2023

March 1, 2022

Dec 30, 2021

Rescinds May 13, 2021 memo

(additional information: release )

Rescinded; see release March 1, 2022 USD(P&R) memo “Updated Guidance for Mask and Screening Testing for all Department of Defense Installations and Other Facilities”

July 28, 2021

June 10, 2021

June 7, 2021

Supplemented, see June 21, 2021 Force Health Protection Guidance Supplement 17, Revision 1 memo

May 13, 2021

Rescinds April 5, 2020 memo

Updated, see May 13, 2021 memo

Feb. 4, 2021

Dec. 3, 2020

Nov. 19, 2020

July 20, 2020

Rescinded; see Feb. 4, 2021 release and memo

April 5, 2020

Jan. 31, 2020

Health Protection Condition Levels

Rescinds Force Health Protection Supplement 2

Rescinds Secretary of Defense April 1, 2020 memo "Guidance for Commanders on the Implementation of the Risk-Based Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic"

Rescinds Secretary of Defense May 19, 2020 memo "Guidance for Commanders on Risk-Based Changing of Health Protection Condition Levels During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic"

April 29, 2021

Supplements Secretary's April 1 memo "Guidance for Commanders on the Implementation of the Risk-Based Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic"

Rescinded, see April 29, 2021 memo "Guidance for Commanders' Risk-Based Responses and Implementation of the Health Protection Condition Framework"

Military Personnel Guidance

Accompanying press release, Feb. 24, 2023

Feb. 24, 2023

Rescinds Secretary Austin’s Aug. 24, 2021 memo Mandatory Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination of Department of Defense Service Members

Rescinds Secretary Austin’s Nov. 30, 2021 memo Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination for Members of the National Guard and the Ready Reserve

Jan. 10, 2023

Rescinded, see Jan. 10, 2023 release: DOD Rescinds COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate

Nov. 30, 2021

Accompanying press release: Aug. 25, 2021

Aug. 24, 2021

July 1, 2020

June 30, 2020

Cancelled; see March 16, 2021 release (Travel Restrictions)

June 29, 2020

April 23, 2020

April 16, 2020

April 9, 2020

March 26, 2020

March 23, 2020

Moving During COVID-19 (PCS)

Pentagon personnel guidance.

Mar. 3, 2023

(CDC COVID data tracker, Arlington County, VA)

June 17, 2022

Sept. 14, 2022

May 4, 2022

Mar. 2, 2022

Jan. 6, 2022

Dec. 28, 2021

Dec. 27, 2021

Oct. 29, 2021

July 30, 2021

July 7, 2021

Rescinds CMO May 26, 2020 memo, “Pentagon Reservation Plan for Reslience and Aligning with National Guidelines for Opening Up American Again”

June 21, 2021

Nov. 24, 2020

Updates June 25 release

Nov. 20, 2020

Updates June 11 release

June 25, 2020

Updates June 10 memo

Updated; see June 25 release

Updated; see June 25 memo

June 10, 2020

Rescinded, see June 21, 2021 DAM memo

March 14, 2020

March 13, 2020

Secretary of Defense Guidance

Jan 2, 2022

March 4, 2021

May 27, 2020

Supplemented by HPCON memo May 19

Rescinded, see April 29, 2021 memo "Guidance for Commanders’ Risk-Based Responses and Implementation of the Health Protection Condition Framework"

April 1, 2020

March 27, 2020

Test Kits: Military Beneficiaries

Feb 24, 2022

Travel Restrictions

March 30, 2022

March 23, 2022

March 16, 2022

March 9, 2022

March 3, 2022

Feb. 23, 2022

Feb. 16, 2022

Feb. 9, 2022

Feb. 2, 2022

Jan. 26, 2022

Jan. 19, 2022

Jan. 12, 2022

Jan. 5, 2022

Dec. 29, 2021

Dec. 22, 2021

Dec. 15, 2021

Dec. 8, 2021

Dec. 1, 2021

Nov. 24, 2021

Nov. 18, 2021

Nov. 10, 2021

Nov. 3, 2021

Oct. 25, 2021

Oct. 20, 2021

Oct. 13, 2021

Oct. 6, 2021

Sept. 29, 2021

Sept. 22, 2021

Sept. 15, 2021

Sept. 8, 2021

Sept. 1, 2021

August 25, 2021

August 18, 2021

August 11, 2021

August 4, 2021

July 14, 2021

June 30, 2021

June 23, 2021

June 9, 2021

June 2, 2021

May 26, 2021

May 19, 2021

May 12, 2021

May 5, 2021

April 28, 2021

April 21, 2021

April 14, 2021

April 7, 2021

March 31, 2021

March 24, 2021

Supplemented see Force Health Protection (Supplement 20), Revision 1

March 10, 2021

March 3, 2021

Feb. 24, 2021

Feb. 17, 2021

Feb. 10, 2021

Jan. 27, 2021

Jan. 22, 2021

Jan. 6, 2021

Dec. 30, 2020

Dec. 23, 2020

Dec. 16, 2020

Dec. 9, 2020

Dec. 2, 2020

Nov. 25, 2020

Nov. 18, 2020

Nov. 12, 2020

Nov. 4, 2020

Nov. 1, 2020

Oct. 30, 2020

Oct. 21, 2020

Oct. 14, 2020

Oct. 7, 2020

Cancelled; see March 16, 2021 release

Oct. 5, 2020

Oct. 1, 2020

Sept. 23, 2020

Sept. 16, 2020

Sept. 9, 2020

Sept. 2, 2020

Aug. 26, 2020

Aug. 19, 2020

Aug. 12, 2020

Aug. 5, 2020

July 29, 2020

July 23, 2020

July 15, 2020

July 8, 2020

(This format replaces the weekly "Travel Restrictions: Green Locations" releases)

July 2, 2020

June 19, 2020

June 12, 2020

June 8, 2020

May 22, 2020

April 20, 2020

Cancelled; see May 22 memo

Cancelled; see April 20 memo

Vaccine Guidance

Nov. 9, 2021

Rescinds and replaced; see Supplement 23, Revision 3

Rescinded and replaced: see Force Health Protection 23, Supplement 2

Rescinded: see Force Health Protection 23, Supplement 1

August 9, 2021

July 29, 2021

May 20, 2021

Feb. 18, 2021

Updates Dec. 9, 2020 schema

Jan. 19, 2021

Jan. 13, 2021

Dec. 31, 2020

Dec. 11, 2020

Rescinded Jan. 19, 2021

Dec. 7, 2020

Defense.gov

Helpful links.

• Live Events
• Today in DOD
• For the Media
• DOD Resources
• DOD Careers
• Help Center
• DOD / Military Websites
• Agency Financial Report
• Value of Service
• Taking Care of Our People
• FY 2025 Defense Budget
• National Defense Strategy

The Department of Defense provides the military forces needed to deter war and ensure our nation's security.

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• Publication Library

Travel Risk Assessment

The DHS Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans recently completed its evaluation and review of all currently travel restricted and 180-day warning countries.  Notably, this review included new recommendations to remove from travel restrictions certain countries that have demonstrated significant compliance improvement.

DHS/PLCY continues to assess in real time the risk of COVID-19 infection from travelers arriving from foreign ports and makes appropriate recommendations.

The goal of the Travel Risk Assessment process is to keep Americans safe. As then-Acting Secretary Wolf noted during his 2020 State of the Homeland Address, “the United States is the world’s most generous and welcoming country, but, unfortunately, there are evil people who seek to travel to the U.S. with the intent of harming and killing Americans. Despite the progress we have made since 9/11, we remain heavily dependent on the paperwork and documentation of a prospective traveler. That is why the Department, along with our interagency partners, developed a process for evaluating the information sharing cooperation, identity management practices and travel related risk associated with each country in the world.”

• Internal Directives Strategy and Doctrinal Products
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• International Travel
• Risk Assessment
• Homeland Security Enterprise
• International Engagement
• Transportation Security

• Health & Safety
• Travel Security

Risk Management

OGSS supports the health, safety and security of students, faculty and staff who travel abroad. We are a national leader in higher education travel risk management. Our policies and procedures reflect industry best practices, but we do not work in a vacuum. OGSS partners with numerous Northwestern colleagues that administer or support international travel, to monitor, assess and mitigate foreseeable risks associated with university-sponsored travel.

Travel Registry Required / GPS Tracking Optional

Trip leaders and students (graduate and undergraduate) participating in university-affiliated travel must register their trip in the  International Travel Registry , which allow for real-time monitoring of travelers’ exposure to risk. Registrants may also link their itinerary via GPS to an AlertTraveler (AT) App for Apple or Android to receive safety and security SMS alerts during travel. See AT User Guide for more information.

Pre-Travel Programming

All university-sponsored undergraduate travelers participate in some type of pre-departure orientation or educational program that discusses health and safety. Most sponsors of group travel also provide a country-specific orientation and/or additional print or web-based materials in which health and safety precautions are outlined.

Program / Itinerary Development

The Global Learning Office , under the guidance of the University Study Abroad Committee and the OGSS, develops new –and reviews existing– undergraduate study abroad programs as well as monitor health or safety concerns in applicable locations. OGSS also provides support to non-GLO travelers and trip organizers who have health or safety questions about proposed destinations or activities.

Locations of Heightened Risk

Undergraduate travel or proposed programing to locations identified as higher risk must comply with the  Undergraduate Travel Policy . All students, including graduate students, must complete a release / waiver for travel to locations of heightened risk.

International Medical and Assistance Insurance

All students (undergraduate and graduate) are required to obtain an accident and sickness  health insurance policy , which includes coverage for medical treatment, evacuation, repatriation and security assistance, unless an exception applies. This coverage is also available to faculty and staff.

24/7 Support

We also partner with the Northwestern police department to provide 24/7 support when a traveler faces distress abroad. See Emergencies Abroad .

Risk Monitoring

To stay abreast of world events that may impact our travelers, OGSS monitors varying open-source news reports, U.S. Department of State (U.S. DOS) Travel Advisories and travel risk information provided by our assistance providers, GeoBlue and Crisis24. (Read more about how we  interpret U.S. DOS advisories. )

Risk Assessment / Response

If an incident abroad poses on concern for the health or safety of travelers, we may initiate a check-in. If conditions warrant programmatic changes, including the possible modification or suspension of the experience, steps are taken as outlined in  Program Modifications or Suspensions due to Health and Safety Concerns.

Risk Communications

When a world event impacts our community, OGSS will post an announcement to Emergency Messages . As time permits, we will also reach out to the sponsoring administrative schools, units or departments to share exposure as well as communicate risks and mitigation strategies.

Navigating Travel Plans: What Happens If I Test Positive Before Travel?

• Last updated May 26, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

As travel restrictions continue to fluctuate amid the ongoing pandemic, one of the biggest concerns for travelers is what happens if they test positive for COVID-19 before their trip. Navigating travel plans in this unpredictable landscape can be challenging and frustrating, but understanding the protocols and options available is crucial. In this article, we will explore the potential scenarios and steps travelers can take if they find themselves in this unfortunate situation. Whether you have a vacation planned or a business trip coming up, knowing how to navigate this potential hurdle can help ease the stress and uncertainty that comes with traveling during these unprecedented times.

What You'll Learn

Pre-travel preparation and risk assessment for positive covid-19 test, quarantine requirements and restrictions for travelers who test positive, steps to take if you test positive before traveling, potential financial implications of testing positive before travel.

Planning a trip during the COVID-19 pandemic requires careful consideration and preparation. One important aspect is the risk of testing positive for COVID-19 before your planned travel. If you test positive before your trip, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your health and the health of those around you.

Here's what you should do if you test positive for COVID-19 before your scheduled travel:

• Isolate and Seek Medical Advice: First and foremost, you should isolate yourself from others to prevent the spread of the virus. Contact your healthcare provider or a designated COVID-19 hotline for further guidance and medical advice. They will provide you with information on how to manage your symptoms, monitor your health, and seek appropriate treatment if necessary.
• Cancel or Postpone Your Travel Plans: In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it is important to cancel or postpone your travel plans. Inform your airline, accommodation provider, and any other relevant parties about your positive test result. Most airlines and travel companies have flexible policies in place to accommodate changes due to COVID-19. They may offer refunds, credits, or the option to reschedule your trip for a later date.
• Follow Local Public Health Guidelines: Stay updated on the current local public health guidelines and regulations. Each destination may have specific requirements for individuals who test positive for COVID-19. This may include mandatory quarantine periods, contact tracing, or additional testing upon arrival. Make sure you understand and comply with these guidelines to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to others.
• Notify Close Contacts: Contact anyone you have been in close proximity with, especially during the days leading up to your positive test result. Inform them about your diagnosis and advise them to monitor their own health, get tested if necessary, and take appropriate precautions to prevent further spread of the virus. Contact tracing is an essential part of containing the virus and preventing outbreaks.
• Take Care of Your Health: It is important to prioritize your health and well-being when you test positive for COVID-19. Follow the guidance provided by your healthcare provider, such as taking prescribed medications, getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and monitoring your symptoms. Seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or if you experience any emergency warning signs, such as difficulty breathing or persistent chest pain.
• Stay Informed and Flexible: The situation surrounding COVID-19 is constantly changing, and travel restrictions and requirements may vary between destinations. Stay informed about the latest developments by checking official sources of information, such as government health department websites and trusted news sources. Be prepared for the possibility of rescheduling or altering your travel plans based on the evolving situation and travel restrictions.

Remember, testing positive for COVID-19 before your planned travel can be disappointing and disruptive, but prioritizing your health and the health of others is paramount. By following the necessary steps and taking appropriate precautions, you can help prevent further spread of the virus and contribute to the global efforts to control the pandemic.

The Ultimate Guide on How to Travel from Phuket Airport to Karon

You may want to see also

If you test positive for COVID-19 before your travel, there are several quarantine requirements and restrictions that you need to be aware of. These measures are in place to help prevent the spread of the virus and protect the health and safety of others. The specific requirements may vary depending on your destination, so it's important to check the guidelines provided by the local health authorities. Here are some general quarantine requirements and restrictions for travelers who test positive:

• Isolation: If you test positive for COVID-19, you will be required to isolate yourself for a certain period of time. This means staying at home or in a designated isolation facility and avoiding contact with others. The duration of isolation may vary depending on the severity of your symptoms and the local guidelines.
• Restricted travel: If you test positive for COVID-19, you will not be allowed to travel until you have completed the required isolation period and have received medical clearance. This means you will need to postpone or cancel your travel plans until you have recovered from the virus.
• Contact tracing: When you test positive for COVID-19, you will be asked to provide a list of people you have been in close contact with recently. This information will be used for contact tracing purposes, which aims to identify and notify people who may have been exposed to the virus. It is important to cooperate with the local health authorities and provide accurate information to help prevent further spread of the virus.
• Follow-up testing: In some cases, you may be required to undergo follow-up testing after completing the isolation period. This is to ensure that you are no longer infectious and have fully recovered from the virus. The local health authorities will provide guidance on when and where to get tested.
• Quarantine requirements for close contacts: If you have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, you may also be subject to quarantine requirements and restrictions. This is to monitor your symptoms and prevent potential spread of the virus. You may be asked to quarantine for a specific period of time and to get tested for COVID-19.

It is important to note that quarantine requirements and restrictions may change frequently as the situation evolves. It is recommended to stay updated on the latest guidelines provided by the local health authorities. Additionally, it is crucial to follow all the instructions given by the healthcare professionals to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling London: A Comprehensive Tour Guide

If you test positive for COVID-19 before traveling, it is important to follow specific steps to ensure the health and safety of yourself and others. Here are the steps you should take if you receive a positive test result:

Isolate yourself:

It is crucial to isolate yourself in a separate room or area of your home to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to others. Avoid close contact with family members or roommates, and use a separate bathroom if possible. If you live alone, it is still important to isolate yourself to prevent potential transmission if you have any visitors.

Notify your healthcare provider:

Contact your healthcare provider or local health department to inform them about your positive test result. They will provide guidance on what steps to take next and may offer additional testing or treatment options specific to your situation. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully.

Inform close contacts:

Reach out to anyone you have recently been in close contact with and inform them of your positive test result. Close contacts typically include individuals you have had prolonged contact with, less than 6 feet apart, without masks. This can include family members, friends, or coworkers. They should be advised to get tested and take necessary precautions to prevent further spread.

Cancel your travel plans:

If you were planning to travel, it is important to cancel your plans immediately. Inform the airline, hotel, or any other relevant parties about your positive test result and the need to reschedule or cancel your trip. Most airlines and accommodations have flexible cancellation policies due to the ongoing pandemic.

Follow local guidelines:

Stay up to date with the local guidelines and regulations in your area. This includes any travel restrictions, quarantine requirements, or testing protocols. Keep in mind that these guidelines can vary from state to state and country to country, so it is important to be aware of the specific requirements for your location.

Take care of your health:

While isolating yourself, monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical attention if necessary. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for managing your symptoms and take any prescribed medications. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids, eat nutritious food, and get plenty of rest to help your body recover.

Continue taking precautions:

Even if you receive a positive test result, it is essential to continue practicing good hygiene and following preventive measures. This includes wearing a mask in public, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing your hands. By doing so, you can help prevent the spread of the virus to others and protect yourself from getting reinfected.

Remember, testing positive before traveling is unfortunate, but by following these steps, you can help minimize the impact and ensure the health and safety of yourself and those around you. Stay informed, stay isolated, and seek guidance from healthcare professionals to navigate this challenging situation.

Where to Donate Travel Size Toiletries in Atlanta

Testing positive for COVID-19 before travel can have several potential financial implications. Here are some of the key considerations to keep in mind:

• Cancelation fees: If you have to cancel your travel plans due to testing positive for COVID-19, you may be subject to cancelation fees. These fees can vary depending on the type of travel you have booked, such as flights, accommodation, or tours. It is important to review the cancelation policies of your bookings and contact the respective providers or travel agencies to understand the potential fees involved.
• Refund policies: Some travel providers may offer refunds or credits in case of a positive COVID-19 test. However, this will largely depend on the specific terms and conditions of your bookings. It is important to review the refund policies of your travel providers and communicate with them directly to explore the available options.
• Travel insurance coverage: If you have purchased travel insurance, it is crucial to check the coverage for COVID-19-related situations. Some policies may include coverage for trip cancelation or interruption due to a positive test result. Contact your travel insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage and the required documentation for a claim.
• Medical expenses: Depending on your travel destination, testing positive for COVID-19 before travel may also result in medical expenses. These expenses can include the cost of testing, consultation fees, medication, and any required quarantine or isolation measures. It is important to be aware of the potential costs and consider whether your health insurance covers these expenses or if you need to make separate arrangements.
• Rescheduling fees: Instead of canceling your travel plans, you may opt to reschedule your trip for a later date. However, rescheduling may come with additional fees and charges imposed by airlines, hotels, or other travel providers. It is important to contact your travel providers as soon as possible to discuss the best options available, including potential fee waivers or credits.
• Alternative travel arrangements: If you are unable to travel due to a positive COVID-19 test, you might need to make alternative arrangements, such as booking new flights or accommodations for a later date. These alternative arrangements can result in additional expenses, especially if you are booking last-minute or during peak travel seasons. It is advisable to compare prices and consider any available discounts or promotions to minimize the financial impact.
• Lost deposits or nonrefundable bookings: In some cases, you may have made nonrefundable bookings or paid deposits for your travel plans. Testing positive for COVID-19 could result in the loss of these payments, as many providers have strict policies regarding nonrefundable payments. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your bookings and assess the potential impact of a positive test result on any nonrefundable payments.

In conclusion, testing positive for COVID-19 before travel can have significant financial implications. It is essential to carefully review the policies of your travel providers, communicate with them directly, and consider any available insurance coverage to minimize the financial impact. Additionally, it can be helpful to plan ahead and be aware of potential costs and alternatives in case of a positive test result.

The Ultimate Guide: How to Travel from Dehradun Airport to Haridwar

Frequently asked questions.

If you test positive for COVID-19 before travel, it is important to follow the guidelines set by health authorities. Most airlines and travel providers require a negative test result to allow you to travel, so testing positive may result in you being unable to travel on your planned date.

Refund policies vary depending on the airline, travel agency, or accommodation provider. Some may offer refunds or allow you to reschedule your travel if you provide a positive COVID-19 test result. It is important to check the terms and conditions of your booking or contact the customer service of the relevant company for specific refund options.

Yes, it is essential to notify the airline or travel provider if you test positive for COVID-19 before travel. They may have specific protocols in place to handle such situations and will guide you on the next steps, which may include rescheduling the trip or providing a refund.

Testing positive for COVID-19, even without symptoms, may still prevent you from traveling as most destinations require a negative test result for entry. It is important to check the entry requirements of your destination and follow their guidelines accordingly.

Travel insurance coverage for COVID-19-related situations varies depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy you have. Some policies may cover trip cancellation or interruption due to a positive test, while others may not. It is crucial to review your policy or contact your insurance provider directly to understand the extent of coverage in case you test positive before travel.

• Guilia Velez Author

• Cagri Burak Author Reviewer Traveller

It is awesome. Thank you for your feedback!

We are sorry. Plesae let us know what went wrong?

We will update our content. Thank you for your feedback!

Leave a comment

Travel photos, related posts.

The Essential Amount of Movement to Bring for Traveling China

• May 09, 2024

Exploring Payment Options at Kroger: Can You Use Travelers Checks?

• May 11, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Luxury: How to Experience the Life of a One Percenter

• May 26, 2024

Understanding the Travel Restrictions for H1B Visa Holders in Dubai

• Mar 16, 2024

How to Create a Separate Account for Travel Money: A Practical Guide

• May 12, 2024

Does Gritty Travel With the Team?

• May 10, 2024

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Food Safety and Inspection Service

• News & Events
• Food Safety
• Science & Data

Food Defense

Food defense risk mitigation tool.

Access this online tool to help you build your food defense plan.

What is food defense and why is it important?

Food defense is the protection of food products from contamination or adulteration intended to cause public health harm or economic disruption.

The food system within the United States continues to increase in complexity, diversity, and reliance upon interconnected domestic and global systems. Concurrently, the threat landscape and potential sources of intentional adulteration continue to evolve and increase in complexity, which could ultimately have a powerful impact on public health and the economy.

Responsibility for the global food supply chain is shared across all levels of government (foreign and domestic) and through collaborative, public-private partnerships with industry. Developing comprehensive risk management systems to protect the food supply establishes a foundation for minimizing public health and economic impacts and ultimately promotes food security and resilience.

What is FSIS’s role in food defense?

Food defense continues to be a priority for FSIS. The Significant Incident Preparedness and Response Staff (SIPRS) within FSIS works with government agencies at all levels, industry, and other organizations to develop and implement strategies to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from intentional contamination of the food supply. FSIS promotes food defense by encouraging establishments to voluntarily adopt a functional food defense plan ; implement food defense practices (including inside, outside, and personnel security measures); and conduct training and exercises to ensure preparedness.

The primary functions of SIPRS include:

• Conducting vulnerability assessments;
• Collaborating with Federal, state, local, and tribal governments, industry, and academic partners to promote food defense;
• Developing and sharing guidance for developing and maintaining food defense practices, including functional food defense plans;
• Identifying and implementing countermeasures and mitigation strategies;
• Conducting analysis of food defense surveillance data;
• Maintaining close relationships with the intelligence and law enforcement communities to educate collectors and analysts on food defense to better inform their work and enhance the exchange of information (e.g., Commercial Targeting and Analysis Center (CTAC), Infragard ); and
• Working with the scientific community on food defense research initiatives, integrated project teams, and risk assessment workgroups.

FSIS inspection program personnel perform food defense tasks in all regulated establishments to identify vulnerabilities that may lead to intentional contamination of product. These tasks also allow FSIS to understand food defense practices that are being implemented by industry, thus providing a better understanding of preparedness and ultimately guiding outreach and education activities. The data from the tasks are used to measure the percentage of establishments that maintain food defense practices which supports Goal 1 of the FSIS Strategic Plan 2023-2026 .

For food products not regulated by FSIS, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) works with other government agencies and private sector organizations to help reduce the risk of tampering or other malicious, criminal, or terrorist actions on the food and cosmetic supply. FDA offers a variety of food defense tools and resources, including the Food Defense 101 online course .

What is the relationship between Food Defense, Food Safety, and Food Security?

In order to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from threats and hazards of greatest risk to the food supply, it is important that preparedness efforts encompass food safety, food defense, and food security. While there are distinct differences between these three concepts, a comprehensive approach that addresses food safety, food defense, and food security considerations improves resilience and protects public health.

• Food Defense - the protection of food products from contamination or adulteration intended to cause public health harm or economic disruption
• Food Safety - the protection of food products from unintentional contamination
• Food Security - when all people, at all times, have both physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2014)

Functional Food Defense Plan

Information on what constitutes a functional food defense plan and tools and resources that are available to help industry put a food defense plan into place.

• Read more about the Functional Food Defense Plan

International Food Defense

An overview of FSIS’ involvement in international food defense activities, including workshops and other outreach initiatives.

• Read more about International Food Defense

Food Defense and Transportation

An overview of transportation-specific vulnerabilities related to FSIS-regulated products, including tools and resources the transportation industry can use to implement food defense security measures.

• Read more about Food Defense and Transportation

Tools, Resources, and Training

A comprehensive list of food defense tools, resources, and training materials for both regulators and industry.

• See more tools, resources and trainings

Vulnerability Assessments

FSIS conducts vulnerability assessments to better prevent and protect against an intentional attack on its regulated products. Based on the assessments, FSIS develops countermeasures to protect the food supply as directed by National Security Memorandum 16 . Additionally, these assessments help to identify research gaps and strengthen communication and collaboration between government and industry partners.

From these assessments, certain activity types (e.g., bulk liquid receiving and loading; liquid storage and handling; secondary ingredient handling; and mixing and similar activities) and characteristics (e.g., short shelf-life, large batch size, uniform mixing, accessibility to the product) were identified that present unique vulnerability to intentional contamination. These activity types and characteristics may occur at multiple process and distribution steps within the supply chain.

Vulnerability assessments also help to identify food defense countermeasures and mitigation strategies aimed at preventing or reducing the impact of an intentional attack on the food supply. Mitigation strategies are risk-based, reasonably appropriate measures that a person knowledgeable about food defense would employ to significantly minimize or prevent significant vulnerabilities identified at actionable process steps, and that are consistent with the current scientific understanding of food defense at the time of the analysis . Mitigation strategies can apply to multiple commodities or facility types, or they can be customized for a specific commodity or facility. Once vulnerabilities and corresponding mitigation strategies have been identified, they can be used to develop a food defense plan.

Preparedness Tools and Resources

The Food Defense Risk Mitigation Tool identifies some possible countermeasures that companies could implement, as part of a food defense plan, to better protect their business, employees, and customers. Some of the countermeasures are specific to particular assets or activities (nodes); others apply more generally to the facility as a whole. The countermeasures listed in this tool are neither mandatory nor exhaustive. Not all of the identified strategies will be applicable, practical, or effective for all types and sizes of slaughter and processing establishments. Additional strategies not included here may also be useful. The user should implement countermeasures appropriate to the specific circumstances of their establishment and operations.

Food Defense Plan Builder. The Food Defense Plan Builder is a user-friendly software program designed to assist owners and operators of food facilities with developing personalized food defense plans for their facilities. This user-friendly tool harnesses existing FDA tools, guidance, and resources for food defense into one single application.

National Policies and Directives

• National Security Memorandum-16 Strengthening the Security and Resilience of United States Food and Agriculture (NSM-16) (2023)   – A plan for federal government agencies, along with SLTT governments and other partners, to continue their collaboration on ensuring the nation’s food and agricultural sector is secure and resilient against domestic and global threats.  The 120 Day Food and Agriculture Interim Risk Review , provides a review of critical and emergent risks to the U.S. Food and Agriculture sector, as well as ways to mitigate those risks. 
• Presidential Policy Directive 8, National Preparedness (2011) – establishes a policy aimed at “strengthening the security and resilience” of the United States through “systematic preparation for the threats that pose the greatest risk to the security of the nation,” including acts of terrorism, cyber-attacks, pandemics, and catastrophic natural disasters.
• Presidential Policy Directive 21, Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience (2013) – establishes a national policy on critical infrastructure security and resilience and refines and clarifies the critical infrastructure-related functions, roles, and responsibilities across the Federal Government, as well as enhances overall coordination and collaboration.
• Executive Order 13636, Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity (2013) – calls for the development of a Cybersecurity Framework to increase the level of core capabilities for critical infrastructure to manage cyber risk by focusing on information sharing, privacy, and the adoption of cyber security practices.

Disposal and Decontamination Guidance

In the event that a biological, chemical or radiological agent is used in an attack that affects the safety of meat, poultry or egg products, there is a need to ensure the proper disposal of contaminated product and possible additional laboratory testing. If a processing facility is contaminated there is also the need to ensure that the facility has been decontaminated and meets FSIS sanitation requirements before it resumes operation.

• Disposal and Decontamination Guidelines
• Federal Food and Agriculture Decontamination and Disposal Roles and Responsibilities (PDF Only)
• FSIS Directive 5500.4
• Food Emergency Response Network (FERN)

Recovery from food contamination with threat agents requires specific guidelines for disposal and decontamination to ensure the safety of the food supply and the environment.

• FSIS, in conjunction with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has developed disposal and decontamination guidelines for food products and food processing facilities intentionally contaminated with threat agents.
• FSIS Directive 5500.4 , Products Intentionally Adulterated with Threat Agents , has been developed to inform agency field personnel of their roles and responsibilities in the case of an intentional contamination in a food processing facility.

Food Emergency Response Network (FERN) During recovery, FERN will continue to assist and coordinate analytical activities to restore public confidence in the safety of the food supply. FERN will also provide laboratory support for investigations of and recovery from terrorism-related events affecting the food supply. In addition, FERN will be used to confirm the safety of the food supply using analytical tests.

Media FSIS recognizes the importance of good communication with the media to ensure informed reporting to more quickly recover from an incident of deliberate contamination. Communications is a standard component in agency exercises and is designed to inform participants of issues surrounding communications with the media and the public during the response and recovery phases of an incident. **For Media Inquiries Contact: the FSIS Congressional and Public Affairs Office at (202) 720-9113.

Featured Factsheets & Resources

Slow Cookers and Food Safety

Cleanliness Helps Prevent Foodborne Illness

Leftovers and Food Safety

Start your search, popular topics.

Experiencing a breach? Contact us now!

What is a Third-Party Risk Assessment?

Most modern organizations can only exist by utilizing third-party providers. A third-party provider is any vendor providing or receiving services outside the organization’s normal network infrastructure. A vendor can be a supplier, service provider, or even the software that you are using to run your business.  

Third-Party vendors have been an invaluable tool in maximizing profit  for growing companies, but they also come with risk. So, how do you best assess your systems’ vulnerabilities when sending or receiving confidential data through a third-party provider? | Third-party risk refers to the threats and vulnerabilities created by gaps in outside vendors’ cybersecurity postures that open doors for malicious actors to invade their network – and yours! 

Every outside vendor that holds your data brings additional cybersecurity risks. These risks could leave sensitive information open to unauthorized access if  a comprehensive cybersecurity program is not in place.  

A crushing illustration is the 2020 Solarwinds hack . Solarwinds is an example of a third-party software product used by various organizations.  There were multiple preventable system failures that gave the attackers access to thousands of partnered networks. 18,000 Solarwinds customers downloaded malware disguised as a software update, enabling malicious malware code to infiltrate and spread to their customers’ systems.      

Something as seemingly innocuous as a breach on an electronic parts and plastics supplier brought Toyota Motors to a screeching halt when they had to suspend production in 14 of their major Japanese plants.. 

But it is the healthcare industry that has become one of the cyber attacker’s most common victims.  In 2022, the healthcare industry accounted for almost 35% of all cybersecurity incidents . In 2023 more than 39 million individuals were impacted by a healthcare sector cyber attack. Managed Care of North America, MCNA suffered a major data breach between February and March of this year.  An unauthorized party was able to access and remove copies of patients personal information and now 8.9 million people have their most personal information compromised.

Whether you are working with a third-party vendor, are the vendor, or both, a third-party vendor’s cyber security team and security processes should be scrutinized to avoid facing either side of an audit.   | As you can see, third-parties can expose any organization to an enormous amount of risk. The only way to protect your business and its assets is by mitigating exposure to potential threats through a comprehensive third-party risk assessment. 

A third-party risk assessment gives you an in-depth examination of external vendors, identifying possible security risks and how best to avoid potential pitfalls.

By determining potential cyber threats, organizations can make important decisions as to whether you should  fix  or terminate your third party partnerships.  | It is no secret how devastating a successful cyber attack can be. In 2022 about 70% of businesses experienced a ransomware incident . In the third quarter of 2022, nearly 15 million data records were breached. It costs businesses, regardless of size, on average, $200,000 when a security breach occurs. While preventing all security threats may not be possible, investing resources into threat identification and monitoring practices to better protect your business is vital.

Periodic third-party risk assessments are always a good business practice, but there are times when they are non-negotiable. Important markers that should always trigger an organization’s cybersecurity assessment are as follows: 

• You share sensitive or confidential information (e.g., personal identifiable information (PII) of your customers) with a vendor or outsourced service provider .   In this circumstance, an assessment evaluates an outside entity’s capabilities, such as infrastructure, data security measures, and compliance practices . It ensures that an outside vendor’s continuity plans align with your company’s data protection and privacy requirements.
• Your customers may perform outside assessments on you as a third party because you hold their sensitive data .   A proactive assessment by you will speed a path to revenue, since you’ll be prepared for any incoming third party risk assessments.  When unprepared, this can hold up – or even lose – lucrative contracts.
• You are undergoing a financial event such as a merger or acquisition .   Assessing a target company’s cyber capabilities is critical during the due diligence phase.  A famous miss here was Yahoo’s $350M reduction in valuation after a cyber incident .  You want to know about these issues before purchase.  

Proactive cybersecurity, will save any organization far more revenue and time than if forced to respond to a breach that has already occurred. If an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, then in the case of Solar winds, that “ounce” would have equaled $26 million dollars. This was a far more catastrophic loss to Solar Winds and its customers than any front end revenues put toward avoiding such a disaster.  | The time spent on a typical third-party risk assessment will depend on the number of third-party vendors, the amount of information shared or received with vendors, and the degree of data protection and mapping already in place. 

An analyst will start with the most critical third parties – those that hold your most sensitive and confidential data. 

The analyst will identify these critical third parties and then determine areas of risk around data transfer and data protection. This could involve reaching out directly to these third parties and having them fill out a questionnaire.  The discovered risks are entered into a risk register and the risk is treated according to business priorities.  

A robust, on-going, third-party risk management program has the following elements: 

• Assessing risk for individual vendors according to their importance to your organization. Here vendors can be placed in categories based on threat levels.
• Classifying partnerships according to their access to your systems, networks, and data.
• Reviewing service level agreements (SLAs) to ensure third-party vendors perform their hired tasks – and you are conforming to any agreed-upon contractual third-party protection for your customers.
• Determining compliance requirements for your organization to clearly outline what regulations and standards you and external partners must satisfy.
• Assessing select third-party vendors according to their answers and independent review. This may include an on-site visit.
• Providing continuous monitoring for changes in their environment as well as yours.

| If you haven’t run a third-party risk assessment in the last year – or ever – the time to act is now.  

Here are some things to prepare for an upcoming third-party risk assessment:

• Review and classify your entire vendor list, based on the sensitive of the data you share with them
• Create a data map for all sensitive data flows, including across third party vendors
• Create a risk register if you don’t have one already
• Work with legal to review your current contractual obligations as a third party to your customers 

Looking for more guidance on how to move your cybersecurity program forward with a comprehensive third-party risk assessment? Cyber Defense Group can help.

We are shifting the cybersecurity consulting paradigm to address the needs of mid-market for cloud-native or cloud-reliant companies experiencing rapid growth.

Founded in 2016 by global security expert Lou Rabon , our nimble team draws on decades of experience and diverse technical expertise, delivering a full spectrum of information security and implementation advisory services on a fixed-cost basis. Our results-driven approach will help meet your immediate needs and prepare you to navigate what’s ahead. 

Get in touch with our experts and see what results are possible for your organization.

Take the first step towards cyber resilience.

Get a security assessment today, stay updated on the latest cybersecurity content and relevant news..

" * " indicates required fields

Your University Login

Username help.

For guidance on usernames:

• Username help (external website)

If you provided an external email address during the registration process you can look up your username:

• Forgotten username?

Password help

If you have forgotten your password, you can reset it.

• Reset password with security questions or by email

Still need help?

• Contact the IS Helpline (external website)