Heading home for the holidays is something that people look forward to each year, but unfortunately, 2020 has been anything but typical. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we work, go to school, and even shop for groceries, so it’s reasonable to expect it will impact how we celebrate the holidays too. If you plan on traveling for the holidays this year, keep these safety tips in mind before you start packing a bag!
COVID-19 Testing
Before you leave, visit an urgent care center and get tested for COVID-19. During your visit the urgent care physician can review your current health status to determine your risk level regarding COVID-19. If you’re considered high-risk, you should not travel. Ask the family that you’re traveling to see to get tested at their local urgent care center too. When you get back from your trip, get tested again to ensure it’s safe to return to work, school, and other activities at home.
Travel Safely
Certain types of travel are more dangerous than others. Trains, busses, planes, and other modes of public transit are at a much higher risk of spreading COVID-19 than your own personal vehicle. Keep your travel destination within driving distance to significantly lower your risk of COVID-19 exposure. If you have to use public transit, contact the airline or transportation company to learn what they’re doing to manage the spread of COVID-19 before booking a ticket.
Taking Precautions
Regardless of where or how you plan to travel, taking precautions to lower your risk of covid-19 exposure is essential. Some of the most effective precautions you can take include:
- Wearing a mask in public
- Practice 6-foot social distancing at all times
- Wash your hands frequently
- Avoid touching your face
- Avoid crowded areas and spaces with poor airflow
Stay attentive to your body during your travels and if you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19, find an urgent care to get tested right away. A fever and sudden loss of taste or smell are among the most common first symptoms of COVID-19, although some people show no symptoms at all. Discuss COVID-19 precautions and risk factors with your family members before making any travel plans in order to keep those that you love as safe as possible.
To schedule your COVID-19 test or learn more about COVID-19 in your local area, call your local urgent care center today!
