Holiday travel often brings increased exposure to germs and disruptions to our routines. Maintaining wellness while away requires proactive measures. Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine and Fox News senior medical analyst, offers valuable advice for staying healthy during your travels.
Travel can disrupt routines and increase the risk of illness. (iStock)
Hydration is Key
Adequate hydration supports a strong immune system. Prioritize water, but also consider unsweetened beverages like coffee, tea, sparkling water, and vegetable juice.
Maintain Your Exercise Regimen
Consistent exercise contributes to overall health. Dr. Siegel advises against halting your workout routine in the days leading up to your trip. A solid exercise regimen combined with good sleep and nutrition can significantly boost your resilience while traveling.
Sanitize Surfaces
Dr. Siegel emphasizes the importance of sanitizing surfaces, particularly on airplanes. Tray tables and other frequently touched areas can harbor numerous germs.
Disinfecting surfaces, especially on planes, can minimize germ exposure. (iStock)
Vaccinations: A Crucial Safeguard
Ensure your vaccinations are current before traveling. Dr. Siegel highlights the Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) as often overlooked. He also recommends the shingles vaccine for those over 50 and the pneumonia vaccine for individuals 60 and older. Staying current with recommended vaccinations like COVID-19 and influenza is also crucial.
Staying up-to-date on vaccines is a key preventative measure. (iStock)
Prepare a Travel Health Kit
Consolidate your medications into a single container to prevent loss, and pack extra doses to account for potential travel delays. Consulting your doctor for a check-up and necessary bloodwork before your trip is also advisable, especially for those managing chronic conditions.
Packing extra medication is crucial in case of travel disruptions. (iStock)
Prioritize Sleep
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can be difficult while traveling, but it’s important for overall health. If you struggle with sleep on the road, try replicating your home sleep routine as much as possible.
Utilize Masks When Necessary
Masks offer an added layer of protection, especially in crowded environments. Consider wearing a mask if you are at higher risk for infection or are in close proximity to others.
Masks provide additional protection in crowded settings. (iStock)
By following these practical tips, you can minimize health risks and enjoy a healthier and more enjoyable travel experience.
