Over the last two weeks the number of cases of influenza has increased dramatically. According to the Center for Disease Control, the national summary report for week 50 showed an elevated number of jurisdictions reporting regional or widespread influenza activity. This means the spread of influenza is on the rise. If you are traveling by plane, train, bus or automobile it is very likely you will come in contact with someone who has a touch of the sniffles.
During your holiday travels you will come in contact with hundreds of people and surfaces before you reach your merry destination. One person with a fever and uncovered coughing boards your plane and the next thing you know you’re ill and unable to enjoy mom’s holiday meal. Escalator rails, bathroom handles, the gas pump handle and those little buttons on the arm rests are examples of virus-ridden surfaces we all touch.
So protect yourself and be considerate of others around you. To lower your risks of spreading or contracting the flu try frequently washing your hands. Using hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes cuts down on spreading viruses as well. Minimize touching contaminated surfaces. Cover all sneezes and coughs with a tissue or your elbow. If you are feeling sick, try to keep your distance from others. Also, speak with your health care provider about receiving a flu vaccine.
Help keep your exposure to flu low this holiday season.