CDC cautions against travel ahead of a busy holiday weekend

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Some in Mid-Missouri are deciding to travel for the first time in months for Memorial Day weekend celebrations, despite concerns of the coronavirus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is cautioning travelers, saying the best way to protect you and others is by staying home.

However, for those still deciding to travel this weekend, the CDC has questions they want travelers to consider:

• Is COVID-19 spreading where you are planning on visiting?
• Is COVID-19 spreading in your own community?
• Are you or someone you have had contact with been sick in the past 14 days?
• Are you or a family member/close contact at higher risk from COVID-19 due to age or preexisting conditions?

If your answer to any of the above questions is "yes," you should avoid traveling.

The CDC is also urging travelers to protect themselves and others while traveling. This means washing hands frequently, especially after being in a public place. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and avoid close contact with others.