The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and travel for millions around the world. However, along with the festive atmosphere, this time of year often brings an increased risk of getting sick due to crowded airports, long lines, and exposure to changing weather conditions. Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking a train, the key to enjoying your holiday season without falling ill is preparation and mindfulness. In this guide, we’ll explore effective strategies to help you avoid getting sick during holiday travel.
Why You Need to Be Cautious About Getting Sick During Holiday Travel
Holiday travel often involves exposure to a variety of germs, whether you’re in an airplane, train, or public transportation. When large numbers of people gather in close quarters, the likelihood of picking up illnesses such as the flu, the common cold, or other respiratory infections increases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu virus is most common from December to February, making the holiday season a prime time for outbreaks.
Top Strategies to Avoid Getting Sick During Holiday Travel
1. Practice Good Hygiene
One of the most effective ways to avoid getting sick during holiday travel is to practice good hygiene.
- Wash Your Hands Regularly: Carry a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and use it after touching public surfaces, like handrails, elevator buttons, or airplane armrests. Washing your hands with soap and water is even better whenever possible.
- Use Hand Sanitizer Frequently: If soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer is your next best option. Use it after touching surfaces, handling money, or touching public transportation handles.
- Avoid Touching Your Face: The eyes, nose, and mouth are common entry points for germs. Try not to touch your face, especially if you’ve been in crowded areas or handling money.
2. Get Vaccinated Before Traveling
Getting vaccinated is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself from getting sick during the holidays.
- Flu Vaccine: The flu vaccine can help reduce your chances of catching the flu, which is particularly prevalent during the holiday season. According to the CDC, flu vaccination can reduce the severity of the illness if you do contract it, and it can prevent you from spreading it to others.
- COVID-19 Vaccine: If you have not already done so, consider getting a booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine. It can help reduce your risk of contracting the virus and provide extra protection during travel, especially if you will be in crowded airports or on public transportation.
3. Maintain Social Distancing When Possible
Although it can be challenging to practice social distancing during the holiday season, especially at airports, trains, and bus stations, you can still minimize your exposure to germs.
- Choose Non-Crowded Times for Travel: If possible, try to travel during off-peak times to avoid large crowds, especially at airports and train stations. Early mornings or late evenings are often less crowded than peak travel times.
- Sit Away from Sick People: If you must travel when crowds are unavoidable, try to sit away from people who look unwell. This can reduce your risk of catching their illness.
4. Wear a Mask
Wearing a mask is an effective way to prevent getting sick, especially in enclosed spaces such as airplanes, trains, and buses.
- Use an N95 or KN95 Mask: These masks provide better protection against airborne germs and are particularly useful in situations where you are in close contact with a lot of people, such as crowded airports or on an airplane.
- Wear Your Mask Correctly: Ensure that your mask covers both your nose and mouth, and avoid touching it while it is on your face.
5. Stay Hydrated and Get Enough Sleep
Maintaining a healthy immune system is crucial during the holiday season, and a big part of that involves getting adequate hydration and sleep.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated helps your body flush out toxins and keeps your immune system functioning optimally. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can dehydrate you and make you more susceptible to illness.
- Get Enough Sleep: Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to illnesses. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, especially during the stressful holiday travel season.
6. Avoid Sharing Personal Items
Sharing items like drinks, food, or even travel accessories can increase your risk of catching germs.
- Don't Share Drinks or Food: This is especially important when you’re traveling with family or friends. If someone in your travel group is sick, it’s better to avoid sharing anything.
- Use Your Own Headphones and Electronics: Sharing headphones or electronic devices can spread germs, so try to keep your own items as much as possible.
7. Keep Your Environment Clean
Keeping your travel space clean can significantly reduce your risk of getting sick.
- Use Disinfecting Wipes: Before sitting down in an airplane seat, train, or bus, wipe down the armrests, seatbelt, tray table, and any other surfaces you will come into contact with.
- Avoid Handling Unnecessary Items: Minimize the number of items you bring into your travel space and avoid handling unnecessary items to reduce exposure to germs.
8. Eat Healthy Foods and Stay Active
Maintaining a healthy diet and regular physical activity can help support your immune system during holiday travel.
- Eat Fruits and Vegetables: These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals that help support a healthy immune system. Fruits like oranges and vegetables like spinach are particularly beneficial.
- Avoid Excessive Sugar and Processed Foods: High-sugar diets can weaken the immune system, so try to eat nutritious foods that support your body’s ability to fight off infections.
Additional Tips for Avoiding Illness During Holiday Travel
- Check Travel Restrictions and Health Guidelines: Before you travel, check the latest travel restrictions, COVID-19 guidelines, and other health advisories for your destination. This can help you stay informed about any potential health risks.
- Stay Informed About Travel Cancellations or Delays: This can help you prepare and avoid stress, which can also negatively impact your immune system.
- Stay Prepared for Emergencies: Pack a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications you may need during travel, including cold and flu medications, pain relievers, and allergy medications.
Conclusion
The holiday season is a time of celebration and togetherness, but it can also be a time of stress and illness, especially when travel is involved. By following the strategies outlined above, you can minimize your risk of getting sick and enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. Whether you’re traveling by airplane, train, or car, preparation is key. By maintaining good hygiene, getting vaccinated, and keeping a healthy routine, you’ll reduce the likelihood of catching a cold, flu, or other seasonal illnesses.
Travel smart, stay safe, and enjoy the festive season without the stress of falling ill!