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How to Prevent the Flu When Traveling this Holiday Season

By December 23, 2019September 15th, 2021No Comments

We all know the winter season is the peak time for many illnesses. Flu season peaks around late November but can last as late as April or May. Many people travel to be with family and friends during the holiday season, which increases the flu’s ability to spread. The CDC has just released a helpful guide for travelers on how to prevent the flu this holiday season, and we’d like to spread the word.

Get your flu shot prior to traveling.

The best way to protect yourself and others while traveling is to get vaccinated for the flu. The CDC recommends everyone over 6 months of age get a flu shot. The best time to do this is early fall, before the start of flu season, but if you forget and your holiday travel plans sneak up on you, aim to get your flu shot at least two weeks prior to traveling. This is because the immunity from the vaccine takes roughly two weeks to develop.

Do not travel if you exhibit flu-like symptoms.

It is not safe for you or for others to travel when you are exhibiting flu-like symptoms. Here are the most common symptoms to look out for:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Muscle aches
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting or diarrhea

Here is the CDC’s advice on what to do if you are sick with the flu:

If you are sick, stay home until at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever or signs of a fever without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as Tylenol®.

Research flu activity in your region of travel.

The CDC provides helpful, up-to-date information on flu activity nationwide. Check it out! No matter the level of flu activity in your region of travel, you should take every precaution to prevent the spread of germs, such as covering your mouth, washing your hands, and eating and sleeping well. If you are traveling to a region with high levels of flu activity, take every precaution to stay healthy and, for seven days after you return home, monitor your health closely.

Stock up on myphysician360 telemedicine consult kits for the flu!

The best way to prepare yourself or your family for the flu while traveling during the holidays is to stock up on our telemedicine consult kits for the flu! When you’re away from home, you don’t have access to your family physician, nor do you have the time to get to the emergency room or urgent care center. With myphysician360, you can see the doctor and get the treatment you need wherever you are, straight from your smartphone.

Check out our telemedicine consult kits for the flu!