Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation Statement on Updated CDC Travel Advisory

NASSAU, Bahamas, 5 January 2022– The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation has taken note of the updated travel advisory issued from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revising its travel recommendation for The Bahamas from a Level 2 to a Level 3 destination.

Much like the rest of the world, The Bahamas is experiencing a surge in cases brought on by the Omicron variant. The CDC evaluates advisory distinctions based on increase and decrease of COVID-19 case counts as well as case trajectory. Vaccine coverage rates and performance also play a role in the CDC’s determination of advisory levels.

“We must remain vigilant and stay the course in order to curb the spread of the virus. We are continuing to evolve as the pandemic evolves, and we know that we have seen this advisory from the CDC before,” said Deputy Prime Minister The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Bahamas Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “The CDC rating will continue to fluctuate throughout the pandemic and is not cause for alarm, but it is a reminder that we cannot let our guard down. All measures and protocols are essential to ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors, and we must continue to take them very seriously.”

The Bahamas Government recognizes concerns around Omicron and is further supporting Bahamians with the distribution of medical-grade masks, which will help reduce risk and safeguard capacity at hospitals and medical facilities. Masks are being distributed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) via clinics and vaccine sites.

Due to the fluidity of COVID-19, the Government of The Bahamas will continue to monitor islands individually and enact protective measures to address specific cases or spikes accordingly. For an overview of The Bahamas’ travel and entry protocols, please visit Bahamas.com/travelupdates.

The Bahamas consistently shows resilience in the face of challenges, and we encourage everyone to continue to do their part: wear a mask, wash your hands, get vaccinated and abide by physical distancing and sanitation protocols that help keep you and your fellow Bahamians safe.

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PRESS INQUIRIES

Anita Johnson-Patty
Director, Global Communications
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
ajohnson@bahamas.com

Weber Shandwick
Public Relations
Bahamas@webershandwick.com