WASHINGTON - U.S. Travel Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy Tori Emerson Barnes issued the following statement on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendation advising unvaccinated Americans to avoid Labor Day travel:

“As Labor Day weekend approaches—a traditional peak for leisure travel—the CDC recommendation to unvaccinated individuals is a further reminder that vaccination is the fastest path to normalcy for all, including for widespread travel. The vaccines have proven safe and highly effective, and now with full FDA approval, there is no reason why anyone should further delay getting a shot. Accordingly, the CDC says vaccinated Americans who adhere to mask usage can continue to travel."

“In 2020 alone, the pandemic resulted in a $500 billion loss in travel spending that cost the U.S. $1.1 trillion in economic output. Great strides have been made to combat the virus and restore the U.S. economy, and we cannot afford to backslide."

“The U.S. Travel Association urges everyone who is eligible and not yet vaccinated to do so immediately—to protect themselves, their neighbors and to help put us on the path to full recovery.”

About U.S. Travel Association

U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing the $1.3 trillion travel industry, an essential contributor to our nation's economy and success. U.S. Travel produces programs and insights and advocates for policies to increase travel to and within the United States. Visit ustravel.org for information and recovery-related data.

Cathy Reynolds
Manager, Media Relations and Lead Manager, IPW Press Operations
+1 202 408 2183
U.S. Travel Association