10 suggestions on keeping balanced though touring

Summer is finally here, and travelers are eager to start the season with new adventures. However, exposure to more people means exposure to more germs. Coming in contact with different organisms your immune system has never encountered can wreak havoc on your body. We all saw the disastrous repercussions of COVID, but in different environments, the common cold can land you in the emergency room.

While airlines and members of the hospitality industry have pledged to deeply clean and sanitize in efforts to keep the public safe, travelers can take their own precautions. Kamara Jones, Acting Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, shares some tips with Detour on how to stay healthy this summer when traveling.

1. Review country-specific health information

Be aware of any vital health information specific to the location you are traveling to. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a great resource that allows you to search by country for specific health-related information like travel health notices and required vaccinations to be ready for wherever you’re going: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel.

2. Pack the essentials

Pack the essentials such as tissues, glasses or contact solution, wipes, hand sanitizer, and prescription/over-the-counter medications such as anti-diarrheal, pain relief, and allergy medications. Make sure to bring a supply of any medicines in your carry-on so they are easily accessible. Check out the CDC’s packing list so you remember all of the essentials: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/pack-smart.

3. Stay up to date on all routine vaccines

In some parts of the world, there are measles, polio, and other vaccine-preventable diseases in communities. This is a good reason to ensure everyone traveling with you is up to date on all their routine vaccines, including COVID-19. Routine vaccines related to travel may include Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Influenza; measles, mumps, and Rubella; and tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, to name a few. More information on routine vaccines can be found at: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/routine-vaccines.

4. Plan ahead

Take care of your mental health and minimize stress and anxiety by planning ahead. Make copies of your passport, emergency contact information, and essential documents such as travel, health, and medical evacuation insurance.

5. Bring a mask

After three years of COVID-19 precautions, many people are urged to throw away their masks but don’t be too quick to do so. When you travel, pack up those masks and keep them within reach if you find yourself in crowded places that are not well-ventilated to protect yourself against airborne illnesses, including COVID-19. Consider masking up in busy airports, planes, and crowded areas.

6. Wash your hands

Washing your hands keeps you healthy and prevents the spread of respiratory and diarrheal infections. Under clean running water, wet and lather your hands with soap. Scrub the back of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails for at least 20 seconds before rinsing.

You can help yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially while traveling.

7. Sanitize

Carry hand sanitizer in case you don’t have access to soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Apply sanitizer to your palms and rub your hands and fingers until they are dry. Sanitize when traveling on planes, trains, and public transportation.

8. Tap into travel clinics

Travel clinics are an often-untapped resource that can help travelers stay healthy on the road or abroad. These niche facilities are equipped with specialists who can advise you on important medications to prevent and treat illness, vaccinations, and any specific health concerns. For more information, visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/find-clinic.

9. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and illness. Keep a reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated while traveling.

10. Prioritize rest

Sleep is crucial to staying healthy, especially when traveling across time zones. Make sure to prioritize setting a bedtime that will allow you to do everything on your itinerary while still getting enough sleep.

Martie Bowser is a journalist and public relations professional in Charlotte, NC. She enjoys amplifying the voices of POC and women that fill a void within their community. Her favorite things to cover include “person of interest” pieces, small business highlights, pop culture commentary, entertainment features, and everything about Beyoncé. Her bylines can be found in Blavity, Black Excellence, Signature Bride, Black Wall Street Times, and HipHop Weekly. Martie can be reached via email at [email protected].