Flight Attendant Friday: Flu Travel

If you watched the television, read a newspaper, or checked news online, you’ve heard all sorts of information, discussions and recommendations about traveling in light of the swine flu outbreak.  It can be hard to sift out solid information from reactionary opinion, and it’s not surprising if you’re feeling a little confused about making the best choices.

So it came as no surprise that I got the following question:

Q.  I’ve got travel plans to (fill in the blank, there were lots of locations asked about), what should I do?  Should I go or stay home?  What would you recommend?

A.  I think the first thing that you need to assess is your personal health.  If you have an immune issue, are in a high risk health category, would be traveling with a young child or an infirm individual, I’d recommend that you consult with your health care provider.  You may be at a greater risk of a health issue, and only your physician can give you responsible information for your situation.

Now, let’s assume that you are an adult in good health, with no high risk factors.  Your travel considerations are different.  And while I wouldn’t presume to tell anyone what choice to make, I’ll explain what I’m doing and why.

On Monday, I’m flying to Mexico.

I’m a healthy adult, with no concerns that put me in a high risk category.  My chances of catching this flu, another flu, or any number of other infections are not any different today than they were a month ago.  I wash my hands frequently, keep them away from my nose and mouth, and most importantly, I don’t go to work, or out and about other people, when I do occasionally get sick.  If more people would follow that protocol, we’d ALL be a lot healthier!

So, I’m traveling.  And I’ll take reasonable precautions.  And I’ll keep my eye out for people who may be exhibiting symptoms and deal with it accordingly.  Reasonable and prudent precautions have always served me well, and based on the information that the CDC has put out, they should still serve me well.

Again, let me remind you that every situation is different.  If you have any health concerns, you need to make your travel decisions in conjunction with information from your health care provider.

Get information and make a reasonable, rather than hysterical, decision.  And please, IF YOUR SICK don’t travel – stay at home!