The holidays are quickly approaching and for some individuals that means they are planning on traveling. Whether you go by plane, car, bus or train you are joined by a few million companions called germs.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you are traveling this holiday season to avoid getting sick.

1.  Stay Hydrated

Commercial airplanes have very low humidity, which can lead to dried up mucus membrane. Drinking water keeps the mucus membranes in the nose and throat moist and better equipped to fight germs.

Dehydration makes it easier to pick up illness and drinking alcohol contributes to dehydration. Avoid alcohol on the plane and even the day before you fly. Drink a bottle of water before you get on the flight, so you start your traveling well hydrated. If you don’t like buying bottled water, carry an empty water bottle through security and fill it as soon as you’re through.

2.  Sanitize Often

The surfaces you come in contact with in an airport, bus station, or train station have been exposed to all sorts of germs, from all sorts of places. It’s a lot for your immune system to handle, so make sure you regularly wash your hands especially before touching your eyes or nose because of how easily germs can be transmitted.

Bring disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer with you!

3.  Beware of your Fellow Passengers

Try to avoid sitting next to someone with heavy perfume as exposure to chemicals increases vulnerability to infection. Breathe out if you are in the company of someone sneezing or coughing.

4.  Use your Vent

If you have an air vent to yourself, try to angle it so that the air is coming straight down in front of your face. This can help divert germs and bacteria away from your face

5.  Get SLEEP!

Studies have shown that a lack of sleep can be linked to sickness, whether you’re trying to avoid it or recover from being sick. You should make sure you are getting the proper amount of sleep to stay healthy (generally 7-8 hours per night).

Remember these 5 easy tips to keep you and your family members healthy this holiday season. 

Happy Holidays and Safe Travels! 

McGRATH GIBSON specializes in personal injury and family law representation throughout Florida. If you or a family member has been injured as the result of an accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills and other damages. If you need a lawyer for a family law matter such as divorce, child custody or alimony, or to prepare a will or prenuptial agreement, our attorneys have the experience to properly represent your interests and protect your rights. Contact our offices to speak directly with an attorney at 904-358-3300.

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