With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, you may find yourself stranded in an airport with crowds of sneezing and wheezing travelers, enduring long commutes on a bus or train or having to touch the not-so-sanitary taxi door handle. Constantine George, MD of Southern Hills Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada advises travelers how to stay health during flu season while traveling.


Q:  What is my risk for acquiring the influenza during my travels?


A:  Traveling during the winter, especially during peak holiday time can have a huge impact on your  chances of  catching the flu. Contrary to popular belief, it's not cold weather that causes the flu. Rather it's people that largely contribute the most to passing around the flu. Caused by the influenza virus, the flu is mainly spread by sneezing and coughing. 


Q:  Should I receive influenza vaccine before traveling? If I can't what are my alternatives?


A: The best way to reduce your chances of getting infected by the influenza virus is by getting your yearly flu vaccine. If you are unable to get the vaccine before you travel, your best bet to prevention is to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, wash your hands frequently and carry moist towellettes - for times when soap and water are not available


Q:  What if I develop a respiratory illness during my trip?


A:  If coughing, sore throat, and fever have you in bed during your travels, make sure that you stay hydrated, get plenty of rest and limit your exposure to others.


Q: Are there medications I can take to build up my immune system to fight the influenza? What about taking herbal remedies such as Airborne, Echinacea? 


A:  The best way to build up your immune system is to stay well rested, get plenty of sleep, decrease stress in your life and eat a well-balanced healthy diet. Unfortunately, there is no scientific research that supports the benefits of certain herbal remedies like Airborne and Echinacea--popular herbal cold and flu remedies sold over the counter to prevent the flu.


Q: Does my risk of catching influenza increase if I'm traveling by plane?


A:  Yes, a traveler's chance of being exposed to the virus increases on an airplane. The most common way to spread the virus is through coughing and sneezing. Due to the nature of planes, everyone is breathing the same re-circulated air, which allows for more exposure to the virus. You can decrease your risk if catching the virus by getting the flu vaccine before you head on your holiday travels.