Planning a Vacation? Dr. Khare Offers Tips for Safe Summer Travel
The Spring quarantine made everyone a little stir crazy and itching for a change of scenery. But is travel safe or should you stick with backyard fun this summer? I asked Dr. Khare to weigh in on this common question. Below are his tips for safe summer travel.
Choose the Great Outdoors
Outdoor activities carry less risk than time spent indoors, so take advantage of the summer weather and pack up the camper. If you’re not quite that outdoorsy, make it a day trip! Hiking, biking, fishing, or renting a kayak are all great outdoor activities that carry little risk.
Stay Close to Home
Road trips within a few hours of home are your best bet this summer. They are safer than airline travel, and if you stay within a few hours, your pit stops along the way will be kept to a minimum. Virus activity in Illinois is far lower than other states currently, and is continuing to decline. This is a good time to stay put and explore the Land of Lincoln.
Know the Numbers
If you are planning a trip out of state, be sure to monitor virus activity for that region before you go. Many states are experiencing an upswing of COVID-19 cases, making them new hot spots within our country. Some states require incoming travelers to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test, while others require travelers to self-quarantine for fourteen days upon arrival. Guidelines can change frequently, so be sure to do your homework. In addition, be sure to wear a mask, pack sanitizer, and abide by the state guidelines while visiting.
Be Flexible
We are all living in a state of flux right now, and this applies to businesses, too. When it comes to travel this summer, going with the flow is key. Consider your best, safest options when making plans, but be prepared that things could change. Choose accommodations that have policies in place to protect you if a change to your travel plans is necessary. Having a plan B is also a good idea. Your goal for summer fun should include safety, so try to go with the flow, even if it wasn’t what you originally had in mind.
House or Hotel?
Many patients ask us, is a hotel safe? Should I book a house instead? Both accommodation types carry some risk. The most important thing is to socially distance yourself from others, and to wear a mask when that is not possible. This may be easier to accomplish at a private residence as opposed to a large hotel, but that doesn’t mean you have to rule out hotels altogether. Hotel chains have put strong measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Check the hotel policies to see what is being done, and to determine your comfort level. There are many factors to consider, including the amount of time you will spend at the property and what amenities you wish to enjoy when there.
Plan According to Your Risk Level
Above all, your summer plans should be based on your individual virus risk level. People who have underlying health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, asthma and autoimmune disorders are at a higher risk of developing complications from COVID-19. These individuals may want to consider postponing travel plans, or at the very least, should avoid areas that have a considerable amount of virus activity.
For more information about COVID-19 or testing at Innovative Express Care, visit us online.
Stay well Chicago!
