The COVID-19 case statistics continue to be staggering, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is advising Americans not to travel due to the pandemic. COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths across the nation are rising. As colder weather arrives, more people will be indoors and in close quarters, which can add to the spread. Health experts say the best way to keep yourself safe during the COVID-19 pandemic is to stay home. “However, as we quickly approach our first COVID anniversary, more and more people are looking for ways to leave their home and still stay safe. If you travel somewhere, consider being tested about three to five days before you go,” says MarkAlain Dery, medical director of infectious diseases for Access Health Louisiana in New Orleans. “Keep in mind, though, a negative test is not an all-clear. Until we have a widely distributed vaccine, you should not behave as if you are COVID negative.”