{"id":7352,"date":"2019-12-09T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2019-12-09T15:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=7352"},"modified":"2025-11-17T10:45:49","modified_gmt":"2025-11-17T15:45:49","slug":"how-to-avoid-getting-sick-while-traveling","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/how-to-avoid-getting-sick-while-traveling\/","title":{"rendered":"7 ways to avoid getting sick while traveling"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you get to travel, whether it\u2019s for work or for fun, consider yourself one of the lucky ones! Traveling gives you the chance to meet new people, embrace fresh opportunities, and see the world. It\u2019s especially common during the holiday season as many people are on the move to celebrate with family and friends.<\/span><\/p>\n

But with change in location, comes a lot of unknowns. It changes your routine. Meaning, a lot of the elements you use to maintain a healthy lifestyle are out of your control. You can\u2019t cook your own meals, you share public transportation, and you\u2019re being introduced to people you\u2019ve never met before. All of these things can take a toll on your immune system. Translation: You end up sick.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to avoid getting sick while traveling this winter? A few experts share their tips and tricks to help keep you feeling healthy and strong all season long.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Keep handsy interactions to a minimum.<\/span><\/h2>\n

In your travels, you\u2019re likely coming into contact with a lot of people\u2014ones you know, and strangers or new acquaintances as well. When possible without seeming rude, try to avoid shaking hands, suggests<\/span> Tania Elliott<\/span><\/a>, MD, clinical instructor at NYU School of Medicine in New York. Hugs and kiss greetings shouldn\u2019t be given out lightly either.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If another person is sick, coming into contact with them by handshake or a cheek kiss can cause you to catch their germs. \u201cWash your hands as frequently as possible, especially after handshakes and also after touching public surfaces, too, like escalators and subway poles,\u201d Dr. Elliott says. \u201cThis is especially important before meals.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Not sure you\u2019ll always be able to sneak away to the bathroom? Carry along a small bottle of <\/span>hand sanitizer<\/span><\/a> that you can turn to at a moment\u2019s notice. \u201cBe sure to use a dime-sized amount, not just a tiny drop,\u201d Dr. Elliott explains.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Eat full, complete meals.<\/span><\/h2>\n

Traveling generally means you\u2019re eating out a lot, so you\u2019re at the mercy of the menu you\u2019re provided. And during the holidays, there seems to be an abundance of unhealthy yet yummy treats and decadent dishes. Unfortunately, that\u2019s not always the best for your immune system. The<\/span> immune system thrives<\/span><\/a> off of a good, healthy diet. So to keep yourself at peak health, be sure you\u2019re always trying to eat complete meals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMake sure you keep your protein intake optimal by having it at every meal, because protein is a component of antibodies, which protect you from viruses and bacteria\u201d explains<\/span> Leslie Bonci<\/span><\/a>, RD, a nutrition consultant for the Kansas City Chiefs, Carnegie Mellon University athletics, and the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So for example, at Thanksgiving dinner, be sure you\u2019re having turkey and not just the tasty side dishes. \u201cDon\u2019t neglect fruits and veggies either, as they\u2019re packed with phytonutrients, which help fight off colds and illnesses,\u201d Bonci adds.<\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED: <\/b>How to avoid holiday heartburn<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

3. Avoid finger foods at all costs.<\/span><\/h2>\n

While the passed apps may look appealing when you\u2019re hungry and just need something small before a big meal, it\u2019s best to avoid finger foods at all costs, cautions Dr. Elliott. \u201cYou\u2019re more likely to contaminate your food that way,\u201d she says. If you\u2019re in need of a snack, she suggests foods like yogurt or soup, which require utensils to keep things as clean as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

\t\t