The recent pandemic has greatly affected several aspects of our lives. Traveling is one of the most affected aspects of our lives due to the restriction on movement imposed by the authority to curb the spread of the coronavirus. People have been advised to stay within their homes unless it is necessary to travel. This move has been to ensure social distancing and to reduce contact between people. Businesses have also suffered a major hit, especially those that depended on traveling, for example, travel agencies and logistic companies.
However, due to the release of various vaccines, authorities and governments across the globe are opening up their borders and transport sectors. This phased reopening of traveling comes at a cost, though, with individuals expected to meet specific demands before they can be allowed to travel or enter a certain area. One of these demands may include having a certificate showing you have been tested for the virus. This move is in line with an international initiative supported by the World Health Organization aimed at controlling the spread of the virus globally. Individuals who have also received the vaccine can also be allowed to travel as long as they provide the proper documentation.
To look at the local traveling sector, local authorities have also put in place several measures to help people move about while limiting the spread of COVID-19. These measures are the perfect guidelines to help you travel safely regardless of the mode of transport you choose. When traveling, you need to ask yourself a series of questions to ascertain if you are safe to travel.
Have you received the vaccination against the virus?
The vaccine is administered in two doses. If you qualify to receive the first dose, get vaccinated, then wait two weeks after the second dose to travel. This way, your body will have built up enough protection against the virus.
Is it risky to travel?
Senior citizens and people with underlying medical conditions are at risk of contracting the virus. You need to establish if you are at risk of getting infected.
Are you in contact with someone at a high risk of infection?
Traveling may involve interacting with people at a point. This means you could get infected and bring the virus back home to your loved ones even without exhibiting any symptoms.
Have you adhered to the travel requirements of your destination?
Different regions have different rules and regulations that need to be followed when traveling, even after getting vaccinated.
Tips when traveling during the pandemic.
Check local requirements and restrictions.
Depending on where you are from or going, different authorities from the state to the federal government have instituted different rules, with some requiring people to wear masks at all times when outdoors. In other areas, people are also expected to stay indoors under seclusion for at least two weeks when they return from their trip. You need to be prepared for the different rules and restrictions imposed instead of learning while on transit. Make sure you are up to speed on the latest travel instructions.
Testing for the virus.
It is advisable to go for testing just before traveling and a few days after your return. This way, you can effectively help to minimize the spread of the virus. Health experts suggest you go for the viral test at least three days before departure. When traveling, keep a copy of your test results in line with traveling laws. Upon your return, it is recommended you get tested after about five days. Irrespective of the negative results, you need to stay in seclusion for at least seven more days and refrain from your normal routine for at least ten days. If you test positive, you need to follow the laid down guidelines and isolate yourself while observing all the health requirements.
Keep safe during your travel.
Aside from the regulations provided by health experts, personal safety and discipline can help you stay safe. Always have a mask on whether you are traveling using a plane, train, bus, or any other means of transport. Ensure the mask covers your nose and mouth properly. When putting together your packing list, there are essentials that you must include for safety purposes. These include;
•Face masks, enough to last your entire trip.
•Tissues or wet wipes.
•Alcohol-based hand sanitizers with an alcohol content of about 60%.
•Disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces.
•Thermometer.
Regardless of the mode of transport you choose, there are basic things you can choose to follow to keep yourself and your traveling companions safe.
•Maintain a distance of about 1.5meters between you and other passengers. This distance can be extended depending on the risk level.
•Avoid any form of contact with anyone who is sick, whether it is a viral infection or any other disease. Keep your distance.
•Avoid touching surfaces that are frequently touched by everyone. These include doorknobs, elevator buttons, kiosk counters, and handrails. This is where the disinfectant wipes come in handy. You can use them to wipe down surfaces that you must touch. Apply hand sanitizers after touching these surfaces if it was unavoidable.
•Keep your face mask on at all times when you are around other people.
•Health experts also advise people to avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth as much as possible. Our hands can transfer the virus to our eyes, nose, and mouth. That is why people are encouraged to regularly wash their hands with soap and running water. However, in this case, you are reminded to always sanitize your hands.
•Cover your coughs and sneezes using a clean tissue or handkerchief. If you use your hands, make sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with water and soap. Cover all the surfaces of your hands, then dry your hands using a clean towel or tissue till dry.
•Avoid eating or drinking while using a public mode of transport. This will help with keeping your face mask on throughout the entire trip.
When it comes to your safety, there should be no compromise on your part and that of the transport provider. Do in-depth research on other practices you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones from the deadly coronavirus. Safety starts with you.