By Dr. David Reichert, CCRA | Contributor
After months of homeschooling and staying at home, it’s time to embark on a summer getaway filled with relaxation and fun. However, a blend of enjoyment and safety is crucial. While shelter-in-place restrictions have been eased, the pandemic is still present. Therefore, adopting new travel behaviors this summer is essential. Here are some recommendations from the Academy of Allergy and Asthma in Primary Care for traveling with children during COVID-19.
- Recognize that children learn through exploration, and contaminated surfaces can pose a risk. As a parent, view your surroundings from your child’s perspective to identify areas that will likely attract their curiosity.
- If your child is mature enough, explain the importance of refraining from touching objects in public spaces.
- When traveling, steer clear of crowded areas. Simply put, higher foot traffic increases the chance of exposure to contaminated surfaces and potential COVID-19 risks.
- Incorporate regular handwashing breaks and use hand sanitizer after exiting common areas.
- Above all, model safe behaviors. Demonstrating adherence to these guidelines can alleviate children’s anxiety regarding COVID-19 and promote acceptance of these safety measures.
If a family member is at elevated risk, you must take extra precautions. It’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks of travel, as they will understand your specific circumstances best.
- Limit your travel group to individuals with whom you have shared close contact over the past months.
- Whenever possible, avoid public transport such as airplanes, trains, and boats, preferring to travel by car.
- Steer clear of large gatherings.
- When visiting relatives, resist the urge to embrace or kiss them.
- Limit exposure to crowded areas, including hotel lobbies and major tourist spots.
- Adhere to physical distancing guidelines, wearing facemasks, maintaining a six-foot distance, and avoiding close contact for more than six minutes.
Prior to stopping at each destination, devise a plan that considers the safest ways to engage with your surroundings to ensure your family’s health. Each family and trip is distinct, but these updated travel habits will be essential for the time being.
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ABOUT DR. DAVID REICHERT, CCRA:
President of the Board of Directors for the Academy of Allergy and Asthma in Primary Care (AAAPC)
Dr. David Reichert possesses over 35 years of experience in the healthcare sector, overseeing research, development, and enhancements of health products. In recent years, his focus has been on Allergy and Immunology, particularly in treating allergies and asthma. After managing the Allergy Immunotherapy Treatment Set division for ALK-Abelló, he founded Acclaim Allergy Solutions in 2014, which offers Allergy Immunotherapy Treatment options to practitioners across the United States. An active participant in multiple Allergy and Immunotherapy organizations, Dr. Reichert serves as the President of the Board of Directors for the Academy of Allergy and Asthma in Primary Care (AAAPC).
About the AAAPC:
The Academy of Allergy and Asthma in Primary Care (AAAPC) is a national nonprofit organization that champions innovative allergy and asthma care models within primary care settings, aiding physicians in extending their service to provide allergy diagnostics and therapies for underserved patient populations.
