Trains, planes, and buses are full of various germs but what to do to protect yourself if you need to travel? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), coronavirus mostly spreads through respiratory droplets that can enter your body through your nose or mouth during close contact with a person who is infected.
Unfortunately, it might also be possible but less likely those who don’t have any symptoms to spread the infection, or for you to get sick by interacting with a contaminated surface. Although most people who catch the coronavirus infection will experience mild symptoms and recover, it’s also possible to get the virus and potentially spread it to people who are more prone to complications.
We’ve collected tips that will help you reduce the risk for getting coronavirus infection. Even if your own risk for developing serious complications is low, it’s still possible you could spread coronavirus to an area that hasn’t yet been affected. Remember about it when considering your travel right now.
1. Wash your hands often and properly.
Washing your hands properly and often is especially essential today. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s recommended to wash hands after being in any public place. It’s also recommended to wash your hands before eating and after coughing or sneezing.
2. Don’t touch your face.
You’ve probably heard this advice many times. Since coronavirus can enter the body through your mouth, nose, and eyes, you need to be extra careful about not touching your face with unwashed hands.
You can try putting my hands in the pockets in order to keep them away from your face, this will help you train your muscle memory to put your hands down. You should also be very careful about touching any public surfaces in general.
3. Keep the distance from people who are coughing or sneezing.
If you see that someone is coughing or sneezing, keep the distance from them in order to prevent getting coronavirus infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus can be transmitted at about six feet. Also, don’t forget about using sanitizer.
4. Stay on top of your vaccinations.
Staying on top of necessary vaccinations will help you protect your overall health and keep your body healthy. So, make sure you’re up to date on your flu and measles vaccines. Your body will definitely thank you.
5. Travel less locally if you can, especially if you’re at high risk.
Today, everyone should be careful while traveling since coronavirus can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, and nationality. However, if you’re at a higher risk of COVID-19 infection complications, taking extra precautions, including when it comes to travel, makes sense. Travel less locally if you can, lease a car, always keep the distance, and avoid public places if possible. People in at-risk groups should also avoid nonessential air travel and cruise travel.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people are at high risk for coronavirus complications if they have:
Neurological diseases like cerebral palsy, epilepsy, stroke, and muscular dystrophy
Heart disorders
Chronic kidney disease
Cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, or other liver diseases
Asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema
Metabolic disorders
Immunosuppression
Diabetes
6. Opt for alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Since washing hands is sometimes unavailable especially during traveling, it’s wise to get an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. When using hand sanitizer let it dry without wiping any off.
7. Follow travel advice from sources the WHO and CDC.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends avoiding nonessential travel to various countries in Europe, South Korea, Iran, and China, no matter your health status or age. Also, avoid contact with other people, don’t use public transportation, and stay at least six feet away from other people.