How To Avoid Getting Sick When You Travel

Getting sick is never fun, but it's even worse to come down with something when you're traveling. That's probably not what you want to hear if you're going somewhere for the holidays or have a trip coming up, but not to worry: There are a number of things you can do to avoid getting sick.

Janet Conner, director of infection prevention for Banner Health's Western Division, shares some insight on why we get sick when we travel and how taking a few practical steps can help you stay healthy when you're on the go.

Why Traveling Sets Us Up to Get Sick

"When we travel, we are exposed to lots of people — sometimes in cramped spaces — and possibly to germs we have never been exposed to before," Conner says. "We are also out of our normal routine, may be under stress and not eating, drinking or sleeping like we should."

How To Combat Germs On The Go

There's no way to completely avoid all germs when traveling, but there are precautions you can take to minimize your chances of getting sick. Conner recommends the following:

1. Keep your hands clean.

Conner says hand hygiene "is the single most effective method of preventing the spread of infection everywhere." Henrythehand.com is a great resource to help teach kids (and remind adults) about proper hand washing techniques and hygiene.

2. Don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth unless you're certain your hands are clean.

Reason being? The “eyes, nose and mouth are gateways for bacteria and viruses such as colds, flu and strep throat," Conner says.

3. Bring hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes.

When soap and water aren't available, using a hand sanitizer can help you avoid getting sick. Conner says you should also use sanitizing wipes to clean commonly touched surfaces such as arm rests and seat trays on planes, and remote controls in hotel rooms.

4. Be extra cautious during flu season.

In most cases, this means getting your flu shot before you travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exception. If you have a question about whether you should be vaccinated, talk to your health care provider.

Take Care of Your Body Before, During and After Your Trip

Before you travel, make sure you're up to date on all vaccinations. Conner says you should also get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and eat balanced meals both before traveling and while on your trip to help prevent your body from getting run down.

Consider Other Travelers' Wellbeing

If you're feeling sick, please don't travel. Stay home, rest and, if possible, reschedule your trip for when you're feeling better and not likely to infect others.

Conner also urges everyone to have good respiratory etiquette. "Cover your cough/sneeze and contain respiratory secretions," she says. You can cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, or use a tissue, discard it immediately and wash your hands. The main thing you want to avoid is coughing or sneezing into your hands and spreading those germs to others.

If You Do Get Sick, Know When To Seek Care

If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. If you're not sure if you need a trip to an urgent care facility, you can give Banner Health's Nurse On Call line a call to discuss your symptoms. A registered nurse will give you free, trusted health care advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If needed, the nurse can also assist you in finding nearby locations that offer the level of care you need.

Call Banner Health's Nurse On Call when you are sick, injured or need care advice at (844) 259-9494.

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