Travel smart with flu prevention tips for holiday trips

As the holiday season approaches, many Hoosiers are preparing to travel. Whether visiting family, escaping the cold or attending festive gatherings, staying healthy while on the move is essential.

Flu activity tends to rise during colder months, and crowded airports and holiday parties can increase your risk of exposure. The good news is that a few simple steps can help protect you and your loved ones.

Start with prevention. “The flu shot is the single best way to prevent acquiring the disease,” says Elyse Thorne, NP, Virtual Care. “It takes about two weeks after receiving the vaccination to reach full immunity. When planning for holiday travel it is important to allow enough time for both the vaccination and the immunity process prior to traveling to adequately protect yourself and others.”

Blaine Takesue, MD, says, “It is especially important to get a flu shot to protect loved ones,” and notes that the flu can risk the lives of people whose immune system is compromised.

Access is widely available at IU Health flu shot locations across Indiana.

Be mindful while on the go. Pack essentials like hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and tissues to help reduce exposure in high-touch environments.

“Cover your cough by coughing into the bend of your arm versus your hands,” says Thorne. “If you feel sick with a fever, cough, runny nose, headache or sneezing, do not travel as you can spread your illness to others.”

Takesue adds, “Wearing a mask may help protect one from getting the flu. An N95 mask is not necessary. If you have to be around someone who has the flu, it is much more effective for them to wear a mask.”

Know what to do if you get sick. “Avoid traveling via plane or train if you have a fever above 100.4°F as you are most likely to spread your illness to others when a fever is present,” says Thorne, who also recommends seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen.

On-Demand Virtual Visits, available daily from 8 am – 8 pm, offer a convenient way for Indiana residents 2 years or older to connect with a provider from a smart device or computer with no appointment needed. Be sure to download the mobile app for an even smoother user experience.

Urgent Care walk-in clinics are available day and night, over the weekend and during holidays to adults and children 3 months or older.

Stay safe, travel smart and enjoy the season.