State Department Issues Highest Alert, Warns US Citizens Not To Travel
LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 15: A jet comes in for landing at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on April 15, 2008 in Los Angeles, California. With skyrocketing fuel prices and a weak economy, US airlines are turning to mergers which could ultimately lead to higher fares through reduced flights and increased market power. US carriers emerged from a five-year slump in 2006 but with $35 billion in losses. In the latest merger move to save profits, Delta Air Lines Inc will buy Northwest Airlines Corp for more than $3 billion, creating the world's biggest airline. Recent profit challenges to the industry have lead to the shutdown of ATA, Skybus, and Aloha Airlines as well as bankruptcy for Frontier Airlines. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
The U.S. State Department has just issued the highest possible travel advisory, and warns Americans not to travel. As CNN explains, “The Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19.”
The State Department also urges Americans out of the country to immediately return “unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period.” They also recommend that U.S. citizens living abroad avoid international travel altogether.
Travel Advisory: Level 4 - The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of #COVID19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the US should arrange for immediate return. pic.twitter.com/MydSzFffYd
— Travel - State Dept (@TravelGov) March 19, 2020
Because of recent concerns, the State Department will also be suspending routine visa services in most countries. CNN explains, “passport agencies would only offer services for customers with a qualified life-or-death emergency and who need a passport for immediate international travel within 72 hours.” This goes into effect tomorrow (March 20).