COVID-19 and Mexico August 2021 update
What is the current COVID-19 situation in Mexico?
As of August 10, 2021, of Latin American countries, Mexico is in fourth behind, Brazil, Argentina and Colombia. The highest number of COVID cases in Mexico are in the highly populated Mexico City. As of August 12, Mexico is dedicated to getting its population vaccinated and has administered 73.8 million rounds of COVID-19 vaccines for people 18 and older.
Do I have to have a PCR test to travel to Mexico?
Although land borders between Mexico and the United States are closed to all non-essential travel, air travel to Mexico is open. You do not have to do a PCR test to be granted access to the country, nor do you have to quarantine on arrival; however, you do not need a negative PCR test to board the plane to Mexico and to return to the US. Travelers are also required to fill out a health screening form as well as undergo health checks (temperature etc.) upon arrival at the airport. Passengers that suspect that they have symptoms can contact Sanidad Internacional for medical attention
.Are there any COVID-19 rules I need to follow?
Upon arrival to Mexico you will not be required to quarantine, nor take a PCR test; but be aware of the COVID four-tier traffic light system (i.e. green, yellow, orange, red) which outlines corresponding restrictions depending on the state. States in the red experience the full-extent of lockdowns while states in green will have no restrictions. As of August 30, 2021, Quintana Roo, the state where we are located, is under orange. Please visit this website to keep up-to-date with the traffic light system. Keep in mind that health screenings are also in place at ports of entry in Mexico, and that displaying any symptoms could result in a health screening or quarantine.
Masks and social distancing
Masks are mandatory in Quintana Roo (our state) and passengers are required to wear masks in local transportation for the duration of their trip. It is also required that people respect social distancing as well as wash/sanitize their hands. In the tourist areas, many visitors do not respect these restrictions and the authorities have been lax in enforcing them which unfortunately has resulted in the increased COVID spread.
Returning to the United States
While flying into Mexico is relatively easy, returning back to the United States can be complicated. A negative viral COVID test, or documentation of recovery (three months after the incident), is required for anyone traveling into the US, including US citizens and permanent residents over the age of two.
What if I get COVID while traveling?
Make sure you take your test no more than 72 hours prior to your flight back to the U.S. and you must have a paper or electronic copy of your test result. If you have had a positive test result you must keep a record of the result along with a letter from your doctor declaring that you are fully recovered. Also be aware of the health requirements of the state to which you are returning. If you require a waiver for the vaccine, you can email the U.S. embassy. For more information regarding these requirements, please visit this website.
Lower your risk and flatten the curve
To lower your risk of contracting COVID-19, it is highly suggested that you take an FDA approved COVID-19 vaccine. Also be sure to practice social distancing, wear a mask, and practice good hygiene such as washing your hands. People who are pregnant and those with a compromised immune system are recommended to self-isolate and forgo travel plans for the time being. To learn more about how to practice responsible travel and tourism, visit here.
For the safety of our students, teachers and community, all immersion students arriving at Na'atik are required to have taken a COVID-19 vaccine. If you're ready to come and immerse yourself in Spanish or Maya language and culture, send us an email at say@naatikmexico.org or learn more about us and our programs here.