The federal government and federal health officials have urged the public to stay at home and avoid any unnecessary travel, this is to slow down the spread of COVID-19. However, there may be extreme or emergency circumstances where you are obligated to travel during the epidemic. We outline some safety precautions you should take to avoid spreading or being infected with COVID-19.
Keep 6 Feet of Distance Between People
Social distancing protects you and other passengers and airport personnel from being infected with the virus. Not only should you stay at least 6 feet away from people at the airport, but you should practice social distancing on the airplane as well. Try to seat as far away from other passengers as possible. Your flight will probably have fewer passengers than normal so it shouldn’t be difficult to find a seat separated from others. If you find that you are seated next to someone, kindly ask a flight attendant if you can switch seats to protect each other from a possible infection.
Wear a Mask
If it’s possible, wear a mask or a cloth face covering at all times during your trip. COVID-19 is spread through tiny respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes or even talks. It can be spread even if the infected person is not showing any symptoms. This is why it’s important to protect your mouth and nose with a face covering. You should keep your distance when interacting with people, avoid touching your face and regularly wash your hands, even if you are wearing a face mask.
Protect Yourself on Your Way to the Airport
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio asked the public to avoid using public transportation if possible or try to use trains and buses that aren’t crowded to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. If you decide to use public transportation to get to the airport, leave your home with enough time in case you have to wait for a less crowded bus or subway. Try to keep a safe distance between people, avoid touching handrails and other surfaces if possible, cough and sneeze into a tissue paper or into your inner arm. If you are using a rideshare service, follow the same safety precautions to protect yourself and the driver from an infection.
Follow Airport Personnel’s Instructions
Airport personnel and pilots are not only trained to protect passengers from an airplane accident but to keep them safe under any circumstance. Follow their instructions closely about security measures, where to sit, services they are offering and other precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. It is everyone’s responsibility to keep travelers and airport personnel safe and healthy.
Once you arrive at your destination it is advised to practice a self-isolation period of 14 days, practice social distancing and pay close attention to your health. Even if you practiced all the safety measures advised by health officials, COVID-19 is an extremely infectious disease that can be transmitted by seemingly healthy people. Remember that it’s everyone’s responsibility to stop the spread of COVID-19 and that any negligent action, no matter how small, could cause an infection.