10TV: COVID-19 Travel Tips

The Fourth of July weekend, and summertime in general, tend to be popular times to travel.  But in our new normal of COVID-19, just how safe is it to go for a road trip or fly the friendly skies?

Joseph Gastaldo, MD, OhioHealth system medical director of infectious diseases, told 10TV medical reporter Tracy Townsend that it may be possible to have a safe vacation at this point if you take time to plan ahead.

COVID-19 Travel Tips

1. Research your destination. If it's a current COVID-19 hotspot, it might be best to pick another place.  You also need to consider there's the possibility it could become a hotspot while you are there.
2. Is there a mask policy where you are visiting?  Some cities or states require you to wear a mask when in public.  Regardless, you should make sure to bring plenty of masks along with you.
3. Set a timer on your phone to remind you to use hand sanitizer every 15 minutes.
4. If you're flying, be sure to sanitize, sanitize, sanitize!  Bring wipes to wipe down your seat, seatbelt, tray table and any other surfaces you may touch while on-board.  And carry on travel sized hand sanitizer and use it frequently.  Also, hands off your face!  "You have to be cognizant of highly touched areas," Dr. Gastaldo told 10TV.  "Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth.  And wear a mask the entire time."
5. Hitting the road?  Minimize your stops along the way.  Pack a cooler with food and drinks to avoid having to stop for food when you need a bite to eat.  If you do need to stop, be as quick as possible.  Bring an inexpensive pair of flip flops with you to wear to walk into the rest stop or convenience stor.  Then when you get to your car, either throw them out or wipe them down with sanitizer and store in the back of your car to use at your next stop.  
6. Try to go cashless if possible.  Pay for gas at the pump or use your credit card or mobile phone to pay.  Avoid handing your phone or card over to the cashier - swipe it yourself.  And if someone else does touch your phone or card, wipe it down with a sanitizing cloth after.  

If you travel this summer, make sure to have fun - but do it safely!