THE CITY OF OKLAHOMA – As spring break approaches, it is important for Oklahomans to remember that there is a risk of exposure to germs and viruses circulating in many areas, both domestically and internationally. 'stranger.
“Outbreaks can occur anywhere, even in the United States,” said Kendra Dougherty, director of OSDH's Infectious Disease Prevention and Response Service. “We are seeing that right now with the current situation. measles outbreaks in other states outside of Oklahoma. That's why it's important to plan ahead when traveling to keep you and your family healthy.
There are some basic steps individuals can take to prevent exposure to many illnesses while traveling.
These actions include, but are not limited to:
- Practice good hand hygiene.
- Cover your cough with a tissue or your sleeve.
- Stay home if you feel sick.
- Preparation of a travel kit including:
- Prescription medications and any other medication for the entire duration of the trip.
- Solar cream.
- Insect repellent, ideally containing DEET or picaridin.
- Hydroalcoholic gel.
OSDH also recommends speaking with your trusted health care provider before traveling to determine whether any vaccines or medications are recommended to keep you or your family safe, depending on where you are traveling.
If you become ill after returning from a trip, contact your provider and let them know where you traveled. They can recommend steps to help determine if treatment is needed and they can advise you on how long you should stay home while you are sick.
For more information on travel health Click here.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) protects and improves public health through its local health service system and strategies focused on disease prevention. OSDH provides technical support and guidance to 68 Oklahoma county health departments, as well as guidance and consultation to the two independent city and county health departments of Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Learn more about Oklahoma.gov/health.
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