The Safest Ways To Travel During The Pandemic
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Lots of us are itching to travel again but nothing in life is quite the same as it used to be, including planning a summer vacation. Is it really safe to go away during the pandemic? Dr. Joseph Khabbaza, a pulmonary and critical care physician at the Cleveland Clinic, told USA Today which travel activities are safer and which carry more risks:
- Air Travel – Dr. Khabbaza says that flying has the most potential for COVID-19 exposure simply because of how planes are configured. But it’s safer now than it was at the beginning of the crisis. He adds that spacing and sanitizing are important, as well as wearing face coverings.
- Trains – Trains have many of the same issues as air travel, especially since distancing isn’t always possible.
- Cruise Ships – While cruise ships were among the earliest coronavirus hot spots, the risk will be lower once ships start sailing again because of the precautions being taken, including the elimination of buffets. Dr. Khabbaza also says that passengers will likely be safe in their rooms, and the ships do offer enough space for social distancing.
- Road Trips – This might seem like a safer way to travel, but Dr. Khabbaza says you still need to take precautions every time you step out of a car, whether it’s for food, gas, or a potty break.
- Hotels – Most hotels have increased their disinfecting procedures, and are introducing contactless check-in and check-out, however Dr. Khabbaza suggests bringing your own disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces in the room. He does believe that COVID-19 risks is very low in hotel rooms though.
- Theme Parks – Dr. Khabbaza says the biggest risk of visiting theme parks is the travel it takes to get to them. Parks will likely be one of the safer activities this summer because of the changes that are being made, including social distancing and mandatory mask wearing.
- Camping – Dr. Khabbaza says camping is one of the safest activities because it’s outdoors and you will likely stay with your own family.
Phil Harris is 50% of "Phil & Mel in the Afternoon" on K104.7. He has been with the station since 2013 and on the air in Charlotte since 2000. Before coming to the Queen City, Phil worked for radio stations in Pittsburgh, Austin, and Seattle. In addition to the weekly "Throwback Threesome" music video feature, Phil writes about things that matter to Charlotte sports fans and pet owners. He happens to be both.
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