USA TODAY SPECIAL EDITION
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UP FRONT | ADVICE By Amy Sinatra Ayres
T
HE DRAMATIC SPREAD OF the
coronavirus has many travelers wondering what to do about trips they’ve already booked, what to consider if they’re planning a new trip and how to stay healthy while getting there. Heading into the summer months, more states are allowing businesses to reopen with precautions. “Presently, travel in the U.S. appears to be safe, but we need to be smart about our actions,” says Dr. Harry Oken, a practicing internist and clinical professor of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. “I suspect more people will keep social distancing in mind as they make summer travel plans. I also suspect people will bring with them their own travel kits that include cleaning supplies,” Oken adds. “If you’re traveling, everyone should wear a face mask and practice decontamination of the mask. An easy way to decontaminate a face mask is to spray it with hydrogen peroxide.” He recommends travelers “minimize your touches in common areas,” such as airports, train stations or taxis and ride-sharing services. If you’re getting on an airplane, bus or train, Oken says to use an antibacterial wipe to disinfect your seat, the table attached to it, the armrests and headrests — then wash your hands. “It is still appropriate not to shake hands; use an elbow bump instead. Go the other way when you see people coughing. Try to wash your hands with soap and water often. If it is not available, use an alcohol-based hand gel,” he says. Making healthy decisions about what you’re eating is also important when you travel, Oken says. He advises selecting “cooked meat instead of uncooked, unless you feel 100 percent confident in the food preparation.” In addition, “Stay away from street vendors. If you do partake, have cooked
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends following any state and local restrictions if you travel, and quarantining yourself if you come into contact with someone who has the virus. food. Ask for drinks without ice.” People who are at a higher risk of severe infection may want to reconsider their travel plans, says Oken. “Advanced age can be a factor, particularly if associated with comorbidities (multiple chronic diseases).” Individuals with underlying immune deficiencies could be at risk, as well as anyone with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, heart disease and those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, he says. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says travelers should follow any state and local restrictions and
warns that you may be asked to self-quarantine at home if you come in close contact with someone who has the virus. What if you get sick while you’re traveling? “If you feel like you have a routine cold, follow your routine measures for dealing with the cold. Be sure to cover your mouth when you’re coughing and sneezing and minimize your contact with other people,” Oken says. If you’re sick, be sure to quarantine yourself, he says. “Typically, I suggest my patients practice ‘watchful waiting’ unless their symptoms worsen over seven to 10 days or are associated with a fever. Be sure you’re getting ample sleep.
Sleep is extremely important as it refreshes the immune system. The length of sleep is variable per person, but typically the sweet spot is between six to eight hours.” Oken, who’s also a medical advisory board member of Persona Nutrition, which provides personalized vitamin subscription services, also emphasizes the importance of good nutrition in general, but specifically for people who aren’t getting at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. He advises checking with your doctor before starting any supplement regimen to support overall health and wellness.
