Staying Healthy During Holiday Travel and Gatherings

Travel and holiday gatherings create the perfect environment for viruses to spread, according to Maria Escarcia, D.O., an emergency medicine physician with Baptist Health South Florida. When people come together in close quarters — whether on planes, in cars or at family celebrations — they often share bathrooms, food and frequently touched surfaces. Poor air circulation in enclosed spaces can also make it easier for viruses to move from person to person, increasing the risk of illness during busy travel and holiday seasons.

Escarcia emphasizes that one of the most effective — and simplest — ways to reduce the spread of viruses is frequent handwashing with soap and water. Hands should always be washed after using the restroom and before preparing food for others. Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations is another important layer of protection, especially during times of increased travel and social interaction.

When someone is sick, Escarcia stresses the importance of limiting contact with others whenever possible. Staying home and avoiding gatherings can help protect friends, family and travel companions. If staying home is not an option, wearing a mask can help reduce the spread of virus particles and lower the risk of infecting others.

Hydration is also critical when someone is ill, particularly for gastrointestinal viruses like norovirus. Escarcia advises people who feel sick to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and think carefully about whether it’s safe to attend events or continue travel plans. Open communication is key — letting travel companions or hosts know about symptoms allows others to take appropriate precautions.

One especially important rule applies to food preparation. Escarcia warns that people who are sick should never prepare food for others and should continue avoiding food preparation for at least 48 hours after symptoms have resolved. This is because viruses like norovirus can continue to be shed even after a person starts to feel better, increasing the risk of spreading infection unknowingly.

By practicing good hand hygiene, staying home when sick, communicating openly and being mindful of food safety, individuals can help reduce the spread of viruses and protect others during travel and holiday gatherings.