Can Canadians travel safely as BA.5 subvariant spreads globally? Here’s what to consider
Global News
Experts are urging Canadians who are travelling this summer to have health insurance, be up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, and to continue wearing masks in crowded spaces.
As the highly transmissible BA.5 subvariant of Omicron continues to spread around the world, experts are urging Canadians who are travelling this summer to have health insurance, be up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, and to continue wearing masks in crowded spaces.
Dr. Don Vinh, an infectious diseases specialist at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), says there are several ways Canadian travellers can minimize the risk of catching the subvariant and getting severely ill.
He said travellers need to be familiar with the health system in the country they’re visiting and get health insurance to cover medical costs if they were to get hospitalized with COVID-19.
“If you were to get infected with BA.5 and fall sick in another country, how comfortable would you be to seek medical attention or be hospitalized?” Vinh said.
Another way to protect oneself against Omicron and its subvariants, according to Vinh, is by being vaccinated with at least three doses.
“The last dose needs to be taken within the last three months to protect you from getting severe disease,” said Vinh.
In Canada, a fourth COVID-19 dose is already being offered as the seventh wave takes shape in many parts of the country.
READ MORE: Ontario expands 4th COVID vaccine doses to those aged 18 to 59 amid 7th wave