BOISE, Idaho — As Americans get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving, the United States is battling dire COVID-19 numbers, averaging 157,000 new cases each day according to the COVID Tracking Project. That is more than four times the daily average from just two months ago.
The CDC is advising Americans not to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday. The recommendation comes as coronavirus cases surge throughout the United States and traveling could spread the virus from one part of the country to another.
Here in Idaho, the number of travelers over the holiday is expected to be the lowest since the Great Recession. With the bulk of travelers hitting the road, they have to be aware the pandemic has affected many common businesses and services.
"Some rest areas might not be open, some restaurants may only be offering carryout only, some hotels may be closed, so some of those places you're going to have to do your homework ahead of time and make sure those things are still available for you," said Matthew Conde, AAA Idaho public affairs director.
Airline travel will likely be half its normal number, but AAA recommended those who are flying, show up early because COVID-19 procedures could make security lines longer.
