As millions of doses of this year’s flu vaccine will become available within the next few weeks, and the flu season media blitz begins, travelers may be wondering how to prepare for flu season travel.  If you will be boarding a flight or setting sail during this year’s flu season, here are a few ways you can make sure you don’t catch anything that might ruin your trip.

Get the flu shot

With more and more people getting infected with the virus and spreading it to others, it’s imperative for travels to get their annual flu shot. Despite what myths you might read across the Internet, the flu shot will not give you the flu.

Update your travel medicine kit

If you’re traveling and get the flu, you should do the same things you would normally do at home:

• Take fever-reducing medicines
• Drink lots of warm fluids
• Get lots of rest

Carry hand sanitizer

Doorknobs, faucet handles, handrails and other hard surfaces are primary ways people spread colds and the flu. When traveling, be weary of spreading germs and avoid touching or wipe down surfaces like airplane bathroom faucets, arm rests, tray tables, and other things touched by people who’ve previously sat in your seat.

Implement flu season behaviors

The steps you would practice in your home to prevent the spread of germs and flu are the same steps you shou,ld take when traveling.

Some steps you should take include:

• Covering your mouth when you sneeze with a tissue, or your elbow
• Wash you hands often, especially after touching money, kiosks, elevator buttons, and ATM buttons
• Keep your hands away from your face

Know where to find medical care on your trip

Do some research before your travels to locate nearby medical care on your trip.  Not every minor injury or sickness warrants a visit to the ER, so seek out urgent care center and walk-in clinics in the area.

Flu Treatment Options in Malden, MA

Traveling soon?  In addition to getting travel vaccinations to ensure there will be no hiccups during your trip, during flu season, you’ll definitely want to make sure you receive your annual flu shot so you won’t catch the flu from other travelers.  AFC Urgent Care Malden provides seasonal flu shots on a walk-in basis, seven days a week.  If you would like more information about seasonal flu shots, please call us at .  We look forward to keeping you healthy this upcoming flu season.