Donald Trump recently declared a travel ban on 28 countries, now expanded to include the UK and Ireland, because of the coronavirus outbreak. As anyone who has been on social media has likely seen, this sudden travel restriction resulted in tons of people trying to get back to the United States. In the earliest moments of panic, people spent up to $20,000 on tickets to get home. As some confusion has settled (U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents are still able to come home, for example, though Trump’s initial address did not clarify that extremely important detail), it’s also clear that getting into the country appears to be at odds with following guidelines from the CDC to, you know, avoid crowds as much as possible.
Part of the congestion stems from the Trump administration’s decision to restrict all flights carrying the aforementioned citizens and residents to a mere 13 airports, as of midnight on Friday. So, while countless people surely felt relieved they were able to get home, they’re reportedly spending hours waiting to get through customs and be screened. Some travelers report receiving water and wipes, while others report getting nada during the long wait in a crowded space.
Obviously being crammed into small spaces is just about the opposite of practicing social distancing, but travelers are at a loss for other options. Whether you’re ill or not already upon landing, it’s a scary circumstance: As CNN reported, a source with knowledge of the medical screenings at JFK Airport told the outlet that at least three passengers were sent to the hospital because of symptoms.
This Op-Ed over at The Washington Post details one writer’s experience returning to Dulles International Airport outside of Washington, D.C. In her words, she “encountered a case study in how to spread a pandemic.” The full piece is worth a read, here.
And of course, the horrifying photos.
This clip of people being asked to raise their hands to signal they’ve been to mainland Europe is also going viral, though passengers are still on the plane.
Illinois Sen. Tammy Duckworth called out the Trump administration for the long lines.
As did Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzeker.
Chad Wolf, the acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security tweeted about the lines.
As did Mark Morgan, the acting commissioner of Customs and Border Protection.
And Trump? He stresses being “vigilant” and “careful”—while people flying from nearly 30 countries spend hours in congested, close quarters. Imagine if “safety first” included enough test kits and making tests, plus treatment, free and accessible for all?