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COVID-19 Policy

COVID-19 Policy
Amid this global pandemic, Civitas GES remains dedicated to creating bridges between the U.S. and Cuba, while being equally committed to the safety of our participants and our Cuban partners. In the context of travel, there is no “zero risk” of getting and spreading the novel virus. However, it is our responsibility to respect those in our community, and the communities we engage by taking the proper precautions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Therefore, we have decided to adhere to a strict mitigation strategy to prevent spreading the disease into new environments.

We are actively monitoring the global health landscape, as well as international and national travel advisories, as part of our comprehensive risk mitigation strategy.

Cuba and COVID-19
Cuba has been lauded internationally for its management of COVID-19 in spite of the extreme economic conditions over the last 3 years . Cuba is one of 2 Latin American countries to develop its own vaccine. In fact, Cuba has developed five of its own vaccines, 3 of which have been approved for use by its national regulatory agency. As of this writing, 93% of its population has received at least one dose of one of its own vaccines.

Before You Travel
Program participants must take responsibility for their own travels and understand that all travels are at your own risk. Although CDC policies in the United States may vary, Civitas GES has decided to take a more conservative approach, not just for the safety of our travelers, but for the safety of the communities.

Civitas GES requires that all travelers are fully vaccinated with booster shots when applicable, no exceptions. A copy of your up-to-date vaccination card is to be submitted at the same time you submit a copy of your valid passport.

Within 48 hours prior to travel, you must take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test and submit a copy of your negative result. Email your test result to CubaPrograms@CivitasGES.com.

Consider delaying travel if you are awaiting test results, test positive, are sick, or if you have been around someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 5 days.

During Travel
Participants must actively engage and attend all COVID-19 education sessions, conduct daily self-health checks (including temperature), partake in all contact tracing efforts, and self-isolate if there is a reason to believe COVID-19 exposure occurred. In keeping with the Cuban Ministry of Health guidelines:

  • Submit to a PCR test at the airport when you first arrive in Cuba
  • Wear a face covering (such as a properly fit mask) that covers both your nose and mouth while you are indoors and in public spaces
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or the duration of humming the chorus for the song “Guantanamera” twice
  • Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
  • Maintain safe physical distance of 2 meters (6 feet) between yourself and others who are not traveling with you
  • Watch your health and be aware of potential symptoms of COVID-19 and take your temperature if you feel sick

    • After You Travel
    Even after domestic travel, you may generally feel well and not display any symptoms. However, there is still possibility to spread COVID-19 to family, friends, and community for up to 5 days after your travels. In adherence to CDC recommendations, the following should be considered after you travel, regardless of being vaccinated:

  • Avoid being around people who are more likely than others to become severely ill (e.g., older adults and those with underlying medical conditions)
  • Stay home for at least 5 days after your return home. It is safest to stay home for 10 days
  • Get tested 3-5 days after your return home and follow the appropriate precautions
  • Follow state and local recommendations

    • If Civitas GES is to continue to operate programs safely, it is critical that the behavior, conduct, and mentality of all our participants be adjusted to prioritize the health and well-being of the community above individual preferences. It is important that each participant understands that even with precautions in place, you may be exposed to COVID-19, may contract the virus, and may unknowingly transmit the virus to others. Thus, as we look to relaunch programming in Cuba, program participants will be required to adhere to the recommended guidelines.

    Civitas GES will continue to directly communicate timely, relevant updates to our participants and partners as new information is presented. Remember, we are all partners in this and it is our responsibility to do our part to keep each other safe.