Traveling during cold and flu season increases your chances of catching an illness, especially if you plan to fly. You can’t always guarantee your fellow passengers will be healthy or even courteous about using a tissue or covering their mouth when they cough. Fortunately, health care professionals say there are a few essential steps you can take to try to reduce your risk of getting sick when you travel. 

5 Health Care Tips to Avoid Getting Sick While Traveling

1. Catch Up on Your Sleep & Hydrate

Before your travel day arrives, get enough sleep, and stay hydrated. This will boost your immune system and help you fight contagious diseases should you come in contact with one while traveling.

2. Wash Your Hands & Don’t Touch Your Face

Even if no one around you appears to be sick, health care professionals recommend you still avoid touching your nose, mouth, or eyes, if possible. You may have touched something contaminated without knowing it and have germs on your hands. Wash your hands every chance you get, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

3. Wipe Down Your Tray & Surroundings

As soon as you are seated, clean your tray table with antibacterial wipes. It wouldn’t hurt to also wipe the seat belt, armrest, window shade, or overhead light and vent nozzle.

4. Cover Your Mouth & Nose

If a row mate begins coughing or sneezing, you may want to cover your own face for protection. While most people don’t carry disposable face masks for this purpose, if necessary, you can always use a handkerchief or scarf to avoid breathing in the germs.

5. Book a Non-Stop Flight on a Small Plane

A shorter flight on a small plane with no layovers will limit the number of people to whom you are exposed for a long period of time. Even standing in the aisle waiting to board increases your exposure, so instead of rushing to be first, you may want to hang back and board last.

For quality health care from a compassionate team, turn to the doctors and specialists at Chewelah Associated Physicians PS. This Stevens County, WA, team is known for offering a wide range of cost-effective services and for being dedicated to helping the community they live in. Call (509) 935-8711 today to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for contact information and to use the online portal for support.