COVID-19: Tips for travellers to stay safe during their journey

Travelling as the world deals with COVID-19 may be stressful but there are ways in which you can stay safe.

Flight operations have partially resumed across the world, including the UAE.

People stuck outside their home countries, needing to travel for medical emergencies or for other reasons have begun travelling.

Here are some tips offered by the UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention.

1. Don't ignore symptoms

If you are experiencing any COVID-19 related symptoms, postpone your plans or inform the health and airport authorities and the airline you have booked tickets with..

If you suffer from a chronic respiratory disease, Dr Hassan Mohamed Aref Shabana, a respiratory medicine consultant at Zulekha Hospital, recommends having a doctor's note with you when travelling.

Getting a COVID-19 test done may also be recommended in such cases.

Keep the test result with you, which shows that you have tested negative for COVID-19.

2. Check health, safety and aviation regulations before travelling.

Regulations are constantly being updated. Find out what the latest guidelines are from health authorities and aviation authorities.

Find out if the country you are travelling to has a lockdown implement and if you will be asked to stay in quarantine.

3. Boost your immune system

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Read more about how you can boost your immune system here: https://gulfnews.com/1.1587390537726

4. Wash your hands frequently.

5. Carry essentials like hand sanitiser, face masks and gloves.

Dr Shabana, however, advised against wearing gloves throughout your travel.

It is better to use a hand sanitiser regularly, or better still wash your hands.

6. Take extra precautions during the flight

Avoid touching knobs, handles or your face unnecessarily.

With people sitting closely, it is important to maintain as much distance as practically possible.

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7. Once you arrive, stay in quarantine for at least 14 days.

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If you notice any COVID-19 related symptoms, raise it with your doctor immediately.

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