Ever since the Covid-19 outbreak, we have been advised to stay quarantined in our homes for safety. It’s changed the way we work. Companies canceled events and conferences; airlines became stricter when it comes to allowing people to travel.

The virus has made it unsafe for people to go out for work travel, however, many still need to travel for work every day. Covid-19 vaccines are altering the course of the pandemic, but there are still risks. 

Here are the best travel practices for work travels that you need to adhere to whether you’ve been vaccinated.

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  • Wear the proper protection

When going out for long periods of time, you should use double-ply face masks. A single cloth mask is fine if you’re going to less crowded areas for quick errands. But, you’ll need a thicker material if you’re going out for a long time. Choose masks with a removable filter, or an N95, though double-masking will do.

Choose a mask with a tight fit. If you’re using medical-grade masks, pick the ones without a valve as it just pushes air out to people.

Also, make sure that the mask fits perfectly on your face. The Covid-19 virus is airborne so you have to get rid of any spaces that will allow the virus to slip in.

Always bring a face shield with you. Masks can protect you but having a face shield offers a higher rate of protection from close-range contacts or exposure. Wearing the mask under your face shield is one of the best ways to protect yourself from sneezes and coughs.

  • Update yourself on any changes to travel procedures

Your community or government might release an update on procedures or travel services so it’s always best to keep an eye out for these things. You can go to your local government’s website or the transportation company’s website and social media accounts to see if they released any updates regarding travel guidelines.

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  • Practice physical distancing

Stay six feet away from people. The virus is transmitted through droplets and airborne particles so keep at least a six-feet distance away from others. This includes people at work. Avoid handshakes and touching your colleagues.

If you’re on a plane, make sure that you’re seated in an area where there’s not a lot of people. If you notice that there are more people in your area than others, then request a change in seats.

  • Don’t touch things

Avoid touching anything that other people might have come in contact with. If you must, then sanitize the area and wash your hands before and after touching.

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  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth

If you’re anywhere outside the comforts of your home, then you must avoid touching your face. You will get infected if the virus enters your body and it does so through your mouth, nose, and eyes. Note that your hands aren’t protected, this is why you should always sanitize and avoid reaching for your face when you’re out.

  • Keep area well-ventilated

Open the car window or stay in a well-ventilated spot when traveling. If there’s an air vent, sanitize it then angle it down on your lap. This way, any airborne particles will go down to the floor instead of being aimed at your face.

  • Disinfect surfaces and surrounding areas

The virus can live on surfaces for hours. If you’re riding a bus, train, or cab, spray Lysol or alcohol on the seat beforehand. If you’re flying, then do the same or pack sanitizing wipes to wipe your seat, cart, trays, and other things that you might touch.

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  • Wash your hands

Always wash your hands for at least 30 seconds with soap and water, or use alcohol with at least 70 percent alcohol solution before and after your trip

When it comes to driving, walking, riding a cab, sharing a ride, or taking the bus to work, the CDC has released specific guidelines pertaining to your chosen mode of transportation. You can find more information on their website.

If you’re driving, then make sure to always clean your vehicle. Bring it to a car wash or buy the proper car wash equipment like a water containment mat, pressure washer, car brush to clean and sanitize your vehicle yourself.

Boost Your Immune System

Practice boosting your immune system daily.

Here are some basic techniques that could prevent any kind of illness:

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  • Drink lots of water. Hydrating will keep you alert and improve your overall health.
  • Keep your hands off your face during work travel. This cannot be said enough. Your hands are exposed to the air so if you come in contact with a virus or contaminated area, then you touch your face, you have an increased chance of contracting the virus.

Final Words

Avoid traveling as much as you can. Rapid changes in technology have enabled people to be productive wherever they are in the world. Take extraprecautions in protecting yourself from the virus when you must travel. Always stay updated with the news and check CDC’s website for any new reports. Your health comes first, so make sure that you secure it before anything else.