Many people will be making up for lost time and hit the road – and the sky – this summer. With fewer restrictions, we all want to get out and about – but we should do so in a safe fashion.
Mandates for the use of masks have mostly been lifted, it’s true. But the pandemic that led to over 83 million cases and 1 million deaths nationwide remains a part of lives. Careful travel can help ensure you and your loved ones avoid exposure to COVID and other illnesses.
Crowds Can Be Contagious
Here at Freeman Regional Health Services, as a health care facility, we are among places that still require the use of masks. We continually evaluate current positivity rates and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines concerning masking in patient areas.
This makes sense for our many patients who may need extra protection due to an underlying condition that may weaken their immune system. Everyone can provide that defense by wearing a surgical mask or KN95, depending on your preference.
The same logic can be applied in a crowded airplane, a busy airport or even a bustling restaurant.
Masks, vaccination boosters and other steps help people who might have the most potential risk due to COVID-19. That includes:
- People who are 50 and older
- People with preexisting conditions that can make the illness worse, such as obesity or diabetes
- People who with diseases like cancer or other conditions that result in a weaker immune systems
Even if you’re not at higher risk, you can wear a mask to be extra cautious – it’s up to you. And at the same time, you might protect yourself from coming home with an unwanted common cold, flu or sore throat. Also remember that clean hands contribute to good health.
Planning Ahead Means More than Booking a Room
The pandemic remains a challenge for health experts, as the virus keeps changing and reemerging. Talk to your doctor about any worries you might have before you head out for a trip.
You can use the internet to look at rates of illness in the places you’ll visit, too. The CDC continues to update rates of infection, often county-by-county, and you might want to use that information to help plan your trip.
Taking a few testing kits along with can add to peace of mind. The virus keeps evolving, and we have seen how it can become more severe or spread faster. The new “normal” of being aware of conditions isn’t something we want – but it’s something we can manage.
Be Smart If You’re Sick
Nobody wants to cancel a trip or miss a big event. But staying home when you have a potentially dangerous illness is the true way of showing loved ones you care and protecting others. If you test positive, you can contact your primary care physician or advanced practice provider. There are effective treatments and approaches to help you recover well.
Wishing you a healthy summer and safe travels!