PCR travel tests remain because Canada’s not ‘out of the woods yet,’ Tam says
Global News
COVID-19 PCR travel tests aren't going away yet, despite Canada lifting its non-essential travel advisory that was put in place at the start of the pandemic, Dr. Theresa Tam says.
Canada isn’t ready to scrap the COVID-19 PCR testing requirement for fully-vaccinated travellers despite lifting a blanket advisory against non-essential travel, officials say.
Dr. Theresa Tam, chief public health officer of Canada, told reporters during a news conference on Friday that while officials are reviewing protective measures at border entries, the country isn’t “out of the woods yet.”
“I have to remind people that the pandemic is very much alive outside of Canada,” she said.
“Many countries continue to require a pre-departure test, and it adds a layer of protection for any traveller – not just Canadians coming into Canada but travellers from any corners of the world, so it is something we will look at.”
Tam’s comments come after the federal government quietly lifted its advisory against all non-essential travel abroad, which was introduced in March 2020 due to the pandemic.
However, eased measures only apply for fully-vaccinated travellers.
The government advises that international travellers should be fully vaccinated for at least 14 days before travelling, and they must follow local public health guidelines in the country they are visiting.
While Canada is seeing its fourth wave decline, some parts of the country are still struggling with COVID-19, Tam said.
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