CDC Seeks Feedback on Forms Tracking Travelers’ Genetic Signals
Published Date: 6/12/2026
Notice
Summary
The CDC is asking for public feedback on their Traveler-based Genomic Surveillance form to make sure it’s useful and not too much work for people to fill out. They’re giving everyone 30 more days to share thoughts before final approval. This helps keep the process smooth and efficient without costing extra time or money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Time burden for volunteer travelers
If you volunteer at a participating U.S. airport, you will be asked to complete a short anonymous questionnaire and self-collect two lower nasal swabs. CDC estimates 400,000 respondents annually, a burden of 4 minutes per response (4/60 hours), and a total of 26,667 annualized burden hours; there is no monetary cost to respondents other than their time.
Expanded pathogen testing beyond COVID-19
CDC revised the Traveler-based Genomic Surveillance program to test nasal swabs for pathogens beyond SARS-CoV-2, explicitly including Influenza A virus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV); pathogen genomic sequencing may be performed on samples. The notice states that no human genetic testing will be performed.
Shorter, clearer questionnaire for participants
CDC updated the TGS participant questionnaire to have fewer questions and wording tailored to improve participant comprehension and response rates. The revision is intended to reduce respondent burden and make the form easier to understand.
How samples are tested and handled
Participants self-collect two nasal swabs: one swab is pooled in batches of 5–10 for initial RT‑PCR testing for specified pathogens, and if a pool is positive, the individually stored secondary swabs are tested; some samples may be sent to CDC for further testing. The notice clarifies that no human genetic testing will be performed.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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