Traveling this summer? The CDC thinks you should avoid these Delta Variant states

You may want to rethink visiting certain states this summer as the Centers for Disease Control has labeled California, Colorado, Missouri, and Nevada as areas of “concern” for the Delta Variant of COVID-19.

The CDC's data tracker identifies new and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. The CDC estimates, as of now, the Delta Variant makes up around half of the COVID-19 cases in the U.S. Experts are warning that these areas have low vaccination rates, and are therefore more susceptible to the highly contagious variant. 

The Governor of Arkansas has also noted a steep increase in Delta Variant cases, making this another state to keep an eye on when making travel arrangements. 

“The high number of cases today makes it clear that the Delta Variant is increasing the spread of the virus,” Gov. Asa Hutchinson wrote in a Tweet at the end of June.

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Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with the whole family, it’s important to note these states as potential safety risks. While being vaccinated can help in providing some protection against the Delta Variant, you can still be a carrier of the virus even if you show no symptoms. Those who are unvaccinated are obviously at a higher risk as the latest variant has been discovered to be one of the most contagious ones, so far.

If you’re traveling within the U.S., the CDC recommends anyone vaccinated to wear a mask on all public transportation while traveling. This will help protect yourself and others who are at higher risk of contracting the virus. If you’re not vaccinated and want to take a trip, then the CDC urges you to take a viral COVID-19 test at least one day before you leave. From there, you should wear a mask on public transportation, avoid heavy crowds, and practice social distancing from those you are not immediately traveling with.

If you're trying to plan one of the best summer vacations in the U.S., you may want to reconsider visiting Arkansas, California, Colorado, Missouri, and Nevada for the time being—or be ready to follow safety protocols.