Tougher testing requirements expected in U.S.

The Biden administration is expected to take steps in the coming days to toughen testing requirements for international travellers to the U.S., including both vaccinated and unvaccinated people, amid the spread of the new Omicron variant of the coronavirus.

The precise testing protocols were still being finalized ahead of a speech by U.S. President Joe Biden planned for Thursday on the nation’s plans to control the COVID-19 pandemic during the winter season, according to a senior administration official who said some details could still change. Among the policies being considered is a requirement that all air travelers to the U.S. be tested for COVID-19 within a day of boarding their flight. Currently those who are fully vaccinated may present a test taken within three days of boarding.