With the third wave coming, keep these 3 tips in mind when traveling amidst Covid-19

While the threat of being infected by Covid-19 is very much prevalent, the world is slowly unlocking, and opening up to the prospects of travel. More and more destinations are permitting international and domestic travellers to visit for business or leisure. Although staying at home is the practical way to go, in case you decide to travel then certain tips and precautions may come in handy.

As per Mayo Clinic, before you begin your travels, ensure to check if Covid-19 is spreading at your destination. More importantly, analyse if you or people travelling with you are at an increased risk for severe illness, as older adults, children and people of any age with certain medical conditions are more likely to be infected due to low or compromised immunity.

Here are 3 tips that can help you travel during the pandemic with relative safety

These precautions can help minimise the risk of exposure to Covid-19, and the likelihood of further transmission of the virus:

1. Prepare and be aware

Research beforehand, on the number of cases at your destination in the last 7 days. Also, be mindful of the local State or governmental norms, such as getting tested for Covid-19 before air travel, and downloading Aarogya Setu application to enable contact tracing. Other norms include compulsory home or institutional quarantine obligations, and obtaining an e-travel pass before entering a particular destination, or even if just transiting through it.

2. Practice safety measures at all times

Wear a facemask at all times, when in transportation hubs (airports, bus stands etc.), and when inside the mode of transportation. Ensure that you are avoiding close contact with other people by staying at least 6 feet apart. Remember to constantly wash or sanitize your hands, besides avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

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Additionally, avoid touching surfaces as much as possible, be it ticket kiosks (pay in advance or enable contactless payment methods), handrails, restroom surfaces, or elevator buttons. In case, you cannot avoid touching these surfaces, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or rub your hands with a sanitiser containing at least 60 per cent alcohol immediately after coming in contact with a surface.

3. Pack smart

Pack smart and ensure to bring along sanitizing wipes, hand sanitiser, emergency medical kit, important prescribed medication, disposable garbage bags, and extra face masks/shields. Consider carrying water and food items, such as granola bars, and nuts to avoid contact touchpoints while buying food. This will also ensure that you stay hydrated and full for longer durations of your travel.

Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from Covid-19. However, if you must travel, then do consider these tips to protect yourself, and the ones around you.