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Spring break is a time to relax, reset and recharge. For many students it means warmer weather and brighter skies. For parents it may mean a short break away from work to enjoy time with family.
Whether you are traveling by car, plane, or boat, staying healthy while doing so is important. W. Graham Carlos, MD, Bicentennial Professor and professor of clinical medicine at the Indiana University School of Medicine, gives a few tips and tricks to keep you healthy while traveling this spring break.
Question: As families prepare to travel en masse, what should they know to help keep themselves stay healthy while traveling?
W. Graham Carlos: Crowded environments (airports, bus/train stations) are great places to pick up viruses (norovirus and flu) so pay attention to good hand hygiene. For those traveling south or to the sun remember to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated as your skin and body have not acclimated to the warmer temperatures. Finally, use the time together to try to disconnect from media and connect with your family and friends with a specific plan to talk about mental and emotional well-being.
Q: Does how someone travels (car, plane, boat, etc.) dictate what precautions they take?
Carlos: Crowded environments increase the risk of exposure to various infectious diseases that can ruin your trip. Pay attention to hand hygiene in particular. Some people may wish to wear a mask for an extended time on a plane. For those driving to their destination remember to get plenty of rest before a long trip and stop frequently to recharge.
Q: What are some things to keep in mind for those that are traveling domestically and then those traveling internationally?
Carlos: For travelers both foreign and domestic plan for delays. Due to high volumes of air-traffic over Spring Break flights are subject to delays or cancellations. It is good to have a back up plan. Pack some overnight clothes in your carry on. Leave extra time for crowded security checkpoints and remember if you are on a particularly long flight it is a good idea to get up and move around every couple of hours to circulate blood in your legs to prevent blood clots.
Q: What preventative measures should people take before traveling?
Carlos: Vaccinations are always a good idea and will depend on what vaccines you have already had and where you are going. It is a good idea to check in advance to see what may be required in the country you are visiting. Certain countries require proof of vaccination to enter.
Q: Anything else you’d like to add?
Carlos: Spring Break is a time when we all let go of the cold days of winter and embrace the sun and the future hope that summer brings. It is a great time to do a “spring cleaning” of your home but it is also a great time to clean your mind. Consider reflecting on all of the positive things in your life and think about how you can better invest your time and attention moving forward. Time invested in family, friends and fitness will always generate the best returns!
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