Riding out peak flu season
US-based travel insurer AIG Travel has shared tips to help travellers ride out peak flu season.
According to the insurer, the 2016-17 flu season is shaping up to be relatively severe, and pneumonia and mortality rates have now passed epidemic thresholds. “For those taking advantage of off-season deals and ‘spring break’ vacations to travel in March, this trend may be especially alarming,” it highlighted, pointing out that crowded spaces, new germs, recirculated air, and jet lag can make travellers more vulnerable to the flu.
With a view to clarifying common misconceptions about the illness, and giving travellers the best chance of enjoying their trips in good health, AIG Travel global medical director Dr William Spangler has provided a list of lesser-known flu season ‘do’s’ and ‘don'ts’.
Dr Spangler’s recommendations are for travellers to: get a flu vaccine; take preventive measures, such as regular hand washing, to keep from getting sick; be extra vigilant by wiping down tray tables and arm rests with disinfecting wipes; avoid shaking the hands of those with visible symptoms, such as a cough and runny nose; avoid large crowds in areas with known outbreaks; don’t let their guard down post-flu season, i.e. practise healthy behaviours year-round to minimise risk; and avoid flying if they are sick. “Sick travellers, and especially those with a fever, should postpone or cancel their trips – not only to focus on their own health, but also to protect others from catching their illness,” said Dr Spangler. “Some larger airlines may even assign staff members to keep any eye out for sick travellers, and prevent them from boarding the flight where they may infect healthy passengers.”