Since coronavirus has become a global concern many travel plans are changing or being put on hold. People who have plans to travel are left wondering if they’re able to keep their plans and what the risk really is. Check out this coronavirus travel FAQ for answers to put your mind at ease. 

However, many healthcare organizations, cities, and towns are recommending that patients practice social distancing to help avoid the spread of the virus and reduce overall infection rates. Please consult a local town, city, or state advisory before traveling.

Can You Still Travel? 

Depending on where you’re planning to travel, yes, you can still travel, but it comes with certain risks. The CDC has travel recommendations and warning levels for different locations according to the current COVID-19 risk at that location. You can see a full list of travel warnings based on destination here. No matter where you’re traveling, it’s important to be extra vigilant and take steps to prevent illness.  

Are Flights Safe? 

Flight conditions don’t promote the spread of a virus, which is good news! The bad news, however, is that the environment and crowded nature of an airport does promote the spread of a virus. Flights are safe if you take the right precautions to travel safely.

Are Cruises Safe? 

Cruises are considered very high risk for spreading coronavirus and the CDC recommends cancelling any cruise plans for the near future. Some large cruise ship companies have shut down operations completely. Going on a cruise is not worth the risk of contracting the virus and bringing it home to your family, friends, and community members. 

Safe Travel Tips 

If you’re traveling during the coronavirus outbreak, you need to take extra steps to be safe. Some safe travel tips include: 

• Wash your hands frequently. Each hand washing session should last at least 20 seconds. 
• Use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if you’re unable to wash your hands, but handwashing is always preferred. 
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
• Keep as much distance as possible between yourself and other passengers
• Avoid touching your face
• Avoid high-touch surfaces as much as possible. This includes doorknobs, railings, counters, and more. If you do touch a surface like this, wash your hands quickly after. 
• If you’re healthy, DO NOT wear a mask while traveling. 

Be prepared for extra screenings when you leave and enter countries to look for early warning signs of coronavirus. If you become ill overseas, you may not be permitted to board a plane and risk infecting other people. Airports are less crowded but tend to take longer because of the extra screening procedures. Remember to be patient and vigilant while you travel to reduce your risk of catching coronavirus. 

If you have more questions about preventing coronavirus, contact a local healthcare provider or urgent care center today! In addition, AFC Urgent Care North Andover is providing testing for COVID-19 for patients. Make sure to call in advance and ask about testing before coming in.