Protecting Your Health and Loved Ones During Holiday Travel and Gatherings

The holiday season often overlaps with the peak of respiratory virus season, making it a prime time for the spread of illnesses like RSV, flu, and COVID-19. This year, health experts have warned of a "triple threat" due to the simultaneous circulation of these viruses, particularly impacting vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised individuals.

Health and safety concerns exist when traveling and visiting loved ones during the holidays. Understanding simple health and safety precautions and knowing the prevalence, symptoms, and ways to protect yourself and your loved ones is essential for a safe and enjoyable holiday season. Whether hosting at home, traveling, or visiting loved ones in long-term care facilities, thoughtful planning and health precautions can make all the difference.

"Triple Threat": RSV, Flu, and COVID-19 in 2024

According to the CDC reports of December 2024, respiratory virus activity is increasing in many parts of the United States. While the peak of the 2023-2024 season has passed, it's important to remain vigilant as these viruses continue circulating, including some hospitalizations for RSV, flu, and COVID-19. Here's a closer look at each.

1. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

RSV primarily affects infants and older adults, with symptoms ranging from mild cold-like effects to severe respiratory distress. This year, RSV hospitalizations have spiked earlier than usual, highlighting its virulence.

• Symptoms: Runny nose, coughing, wheezing, fever, and difficulty breathing.
• Risks: Can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia in severe cases, particularly in infants and seniors.

2. Influenza (Flu)

Flu season is becoming one of the worst in recent years, with millions of cases reported nationwide. Older adults, children, and those with underlying health conditions are most at risk.

• Symptoms: Fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, sore throat, and coughing.
• Risks: Severe flu can lead to complications like pneumonia, heart inflammation, or even death.

3. COVID-19

While vaccination and improved treatments have reduced COVID-19's impact, new variants continue to circulate, contributing to hospitalizations and deaths.

• Symptoms: Fever, cough, loss of taste or smell, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
• Risks: Severe illness, especially for unvaccinated individuals and those with underlying health conditions.

Recognizing Symptoms: When to Seek Help

Early detection is crucial for managing respiratory illnesses effectively. Know the warning signs that warrant medical attention:

• Mild Symptoms: Runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever, and sore throat can often be managed at home.
• Moderate Symptoms: Persistent high fever, severe fatigue, or difficulty breathing may require medical advice.
• Severe Symptoms: Confusion, chest pain, bluish lips or face, and significant difficulty breathing necessitate emergency care.

If you're visiting a loved one in a long-term care facility, inform staff immediately if they display any of these symptoms to ensure timely medical attention.

Health and Safety Tips When Traveling

Traveling during the holiday season can be exciting but requires extra precautions to ensure both safety and health. Whether you're using ride-sharing apps, public transportation, trains, or planes, planning ahead can help you and your loved ones stay safe and well.

Ride-Sharing Safety Tips

Ride-sharing apps are a convenient way to get around, but it's essential to prioritize your safety. One of the most simple ways to stay safe over the holidays is to question the driver, "Who are you here for?" If the driver refuses to answer the question directly, go back inside and report the situation to the ride-sharing app's customer service. 

1. Wait Indoors: Avoid standing outside alone, especially if you're carrying gifts or valuables. Use the app to track your driver's arrival and stay indoors until they arrive.
2. Verify Driver Details: Check the driver's name, photo, vehicle type, and license plate number against the app before entering the car. Ask, "Who are you here for?" to confirm the driver is legitimate.
3. Protect Your Privacy: Drivers don't need your personal contact information. If a driver pressures you for it, report the incident to the app's customer support.
4. Sanitize Frequently: Keep hand sanitizer handy and use it after touching door handles or seat belts.

Public Transportation and Train Travel

Traveling by bus or train is economical and convenient, but these spaces often bring you close to others, increasing exposure to germs.

1. Wear a Mask: Particularly during peak travel times, wearing a mask can reduce your risk of contracting respiratory illnesses like RSV, the flu, or COVID-19.
2. Sanitize High-Touch Areas: Bring disinfectant wipes to clean armrests, tray tables, and seat handles.
3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Dehydration can weaken your immune system, so drink plenty of water and carry healthy snacks.
4. Practice Respiratory Etiquette: Cough or sneeze into your elbow to avoid spreading germs, and encourage others to do the same.

Air Travel Precautions

Airports and airplanes are high-traffic areas where germs can easily spread. To stay healthy during your journey:

1. Plan Your Timing: Avoid overly crowded flights when possible, and try to travel during off-peak times.
2. Clean Your Space: Use disinfectant wipes to clean your tray table, armrests, seat belt buckles, and in-flight screens.
3. Stay Masked: Wearing a mask in crowded areas like security lines or during boarding can add a layer of protection.
4. Boost Immunity: Stay up to date on vaccinations for flu and COVID-19 before you travel.

General Travel Health Tips

Regardless of your mode of transportation, these tips can help you minimize health risks:

1. Keep Your Hands Clean: Wash your hands with soap and water regularly, or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
2. Avoid Touching Your Face: Prevent germs from entering your system by refraining from touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
3. Monitor Symptoms: If you or someone you're traveling with feels unwell, reconsider your travel plans or take additional precautions to protect others.

Tips for Staying Healthy During Holiday Gatherings

Once you get to your holiday get-together, the risks continue.

1. Get Vaccinated

Vaccines remain the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness from flu and COVID-19. Additionally, this year marks the first time an RSV vaccine is available for older adults. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether it's right for you.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when handwashing isn't possible.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.

3. Wear a Mask in Crowded Indoor Spaces

Consider wearing a mask during holiday travel or in crowded indoor settings to reduce the risk of respiratory virus transmission.

4. Limit Contact if Sick

If you or someone in your household is unwell, avoid gatherings to protect others, especially high-risk individuals.

5. Improve Indoor Ventilation

Open windows and use air purifiers to improve airflow during indoor gatherings. Hosting events outdoors, when possible, further minimizes risks.

Health Measures When Visiting Long-Term Care Facilities

Visiting loved ones in long-term care facilities during the holidays is a meaningful way to stay connected, but it requires extra precautions to safeguard their health.

• Schedule Visits Wisely: Avoid visiting during peak illness seasons or if you have any symptoms of illness.
• Wear Protective Gear: Masks and gloves can provide an additional layer of protection, especially in facilities experiencing outbreaks.
• Limit Physical Contact: Instead of hugs and kisses, consider other ways to express affection, like cheerful conversation or hand gestures.
• Bring Cheer Safely: Decorate rooms with easy-to-clean holiday decorations and bring pre-packaged treats to minimize contamination risks.

Keeping Your Home Safe for Gatherings

Creating a safe and hygienic environment is essential when hosting holiday gatherings:

• Hand Hygiene Stations: Provide hand sanitizers and encourage guests to wash their hands upon arrival.
• Sanitize Surfaces: Regularly clean high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
• Space Out Seating: Arrange seating to allow physical distancing, especially if hosting older or high-risk guests.
• Use Disposable Items: Single-use plates and utensils can minimize cross-contamination risks.

Managing Holiday Stress

The holidays can be stressful, especially with health concerns. Focus on self-care to maintain emotional well-being:

• Set Realistic Expectations: Prioritize meaningful connections over perfection in holiday plans.
• Take Breaks: Balance social commitments with downtime to recharge.
• Delegate Tasks: Share hosting responsibilities to reduce pressure.

Looking Beyond the Holidays: Year-Round Health

The habits you adopt during the holidays can lay the foundation for better health throughout the year.

• Stay Active: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to boost immunity and overall health.
• Eat Balanced Meals: Continue making healthy food choices, focusing on nutrient-rich options.
• Build Relationships: Maintain strong social connections to enhance emotional well-being.

By taking these steps, you can confidently navigate the holiday season, ensuring a safe and joyous time for yourself and your loved ones.