With Spring break beginning tomorrow for many schools the Oklahoma Department of Health gives some travel Tips.
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OK Dept Of Health
As spring break approaches, it is important for Oklahomans to remember there is a risk of exposure to germs and viruses circulating in many areas both domestic and abroad.
“Disease outbreaks can occur anywhere, even in the United States,” said Kendra Dougherty, director of the OSDH Infectious Disease Prevention and Response service. “We are seeing that right now with the current measles outbreaks in other states, outside of Oklahoma. That is why it is important to plan ahead when traveling to keep you and your family healthy.”
There are some basic actions individuals can take to prevent exposure to many diseases while traveling.
Those actions include, but aren’t limited to:
- Practicing good hand hygiene.
- Covering your cough with a tissue or your sleeve.
- Staying home if you feel sick.
- Preparing a travel kit which includes:
- Prescription medications and any other medications to last through the duration of the trip.
- Sunscreen.
- Insect repellent, ideally containing DEET or picaridin.
- Hand sanitizer.
The OSDH also recommends speaking with your trusted healthcare provider ahead of traveling to determine if there may be recommended vaccinations or medications needed to keep you or your family safe depending on the location you are traveling to.
If you become sick after returning from travel, reach out to your provider and let them know where you traveled. They may recommend steps to help determine if treatment is needed, and they can advise on how long you should stay home while you are sick.
For more information on traveler’s health click here.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) protects and improves public health through its system of local health services and strategies focused on preventing disease. OSDH provides technical support and guidance to 68 county health departments in Oklahoma, as well as guidance and consultation to the two independent city-county health departments in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Learn more at Oklahoma.gov/health.
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