4 holiday travel tips during COVID-19
The holidays are upon us, and that often means traveling to be with loved ones or taking a special trip.
Posted — UpdatedIf you’re unvaccinated and testing is not an option, stay home and self-quarantine for 10 days before and after travel. You can reduce your risk and the need to quarantine by getting vaccinated as soon as possible.
“We know masking works, and it not only protects you from catching COVID-19, it prevents you from spreading the virus to other people if you’re ill and don’t know it,” Dr. Sickbert-Bennett says. “Masking is especially important if you’re not yet vaccinated.”
Although you cannot physically distance from others once on a plane, train or bus, spread out while you’re waiting to board. Keep at least 6 feet between yourself and others as often as possible.
Use hand sanitizer and carry disinfectant wipes to use on your armrests and tray table; while COVID-19 is a mostly airborne disease, many other viruses and bacteria can live on surfaces.
If you think you may have COVID-19 or you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, do not participate in any in-person events.
“Be very cognizant of your own health and how you’re feeling, and be willing to be flexible,” Dr. Sickbert-Bennett says. “If you aren’t feeling well, you need to isolate. If you’ve been notified that you have an unprotected exposure, you need to quarantine.”
Be flexible with your plans in case you have to change them if you or someone in your household is feeling ill.
Finally, remember that while this holiday season will be different from last year, the pandemic is not over. Taking simple precautions can help you and your loved ones enjoy the holidays with a reduced risk of infection and illness.