Stay safe while traveling this holiday season with these health-conscious tips.Traveling is one of the biggest components of the holiday season. Whether planning to drive across the state to visit friends or fly across the country to spend time with family, it is important to remain aware of the potential health risks associated with this time of year. Various viruses and illnesses are prominent in the winter, and traveling increases the probability of exposure.
One University of Alabama at Birmingham expert says increased precaution while traveling is important in staying safe and healthy.
Natalie Jewett, M.D., assistant professor in the UAB Department of Family and Community Medicine, offers several tips to stay health conscious while traveling this holiday season.
Prioritize hand hygiene
Basic hand hygiene is essential in the prevention of illness and the spread of germs. Remember to constantly keep hands clean and to avoid touching the face when in public.
“Handwashing is so important in staying healthy,” Jewett said. “When traveling, make sure to keep a travel-size hand sanitizer with you to keep your hands clean when a bathroom is unavailable.”
Stock a travel health pack
Packing a hand sanitizer, medications and other medical supplies can be helpful when traveling.
For individuals with comorbidities, it is essential to remember to keep medications for pre-existing conditions close.
“It is easy to forget your routine medications when traveling, so make sure to include your essential medications,” Jewett said.
Over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers are good items to have on hand when traveling. Multivitamins and vitamin C supplements could be valuable depending on the length of travel.
While mask mandates are no longer in effect, Jewett says packing a mask when traveling can be beneficial in case of sickness.
“In case you or someone you are with becomes sick, a mask can be a useful tool to keep handy,” Jewett said. “Remember to cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough and to always wear a mask when you do feel sick to prevent the spread of any illness.”
Remember to include sanitizing wipes to disinfect high-contact surfaces and areas.
Get the flu shot
Getting the influenza virus shot can be one of the best ways to prevent catching the winter predator. Jewett recommends scheduling the flu shot weeks ahead of planned travel to give the body a chance to build immunity.
“While the flu shot is safe and effective, it might take a couple of weeks to build immunity,” Jewett said. “It is better to get your flu shot a couple of weeks before your anticipated travel dates in order to have a full immune response.”
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen the immune system’s ability to fight off colds and the flu.
Drink plenty of water, focus on eating a balanced diet, and get plenty of rest leading into any travel arrangements.