Man standing in front of bay windows at the airport

With recent announcements and recommendations regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus), many students, faculty and staff may be wondering if they should proceed with plans to travel or head home for spring break.


Consider your destination

Guidance is changing frequently so check travel advisories with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the State Department and the World Health Organization (WHO) before you go. These agencies recommend all travelers thoroughly research their destinations and consult with their healthcare provider for any specific medical concerns.

CU Boulder students with specific medical concerns can call the CU Medical Services nurse line at 303-492-5101 for advice. Learn more about coronavirus updates and resources at CU Boulder.

Those who are planning to travel are advised to have contingency plans in the event of major disruptions. These could include the possibility of being unable to return to the U.S. due to in-country quarantines, being unable to disembark from the ship you may be traveling on and the possibility of canceled flights. Carefully weigh the benefits and risks of travel when considering your spring break plans. 


Keep social distancing in mind

Use precaution when traveling through places like airports, train stations and other commonly crowded areas to minimize your risk of infection. This is especially important if you will be interacting with someone who is high risk such as older family members or those who are immunocompromised. While it may not always be possible to maintain 6 feet of space between everyone, do your best to create additional space between yourself and other travelers.

You can take additional measures to protect yourself from exposure:

  • Wash your hands. Wash your hands often using soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If water and soap aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid frequently touched surfaces. Door handles, railings, elevator buttons and other frequently touched surfaces can spread germs and viruses. Whenever possible, avoid touching these surfaces by using a tissue or your sleeve. You may also consider using disinfecting wipes if you have them.
  • Cover your nose and mouth. If you sneeze or cough, use a tissue or your sleeve to cover your nose and mouth. Immediately wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after blowing your nose or sneezing into a tissue.

Stay hydrated

Traveling can increase your chances of dehydration, especially if you’re traveling long distances. Drinking plenty of water is a great way to stay energized and protect yourself against illness. It can be helpful to set reminders on your phone to make sure you’re drinking hydrating fluids throughout the day. 


Sleep

Sleep is essential in supporting your immune system. Aim to get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, and work in a 20-minute power nap during the day as needed.

Travelers can learn more about travel precautions and steps to stay healthy by visiting the CDC’s COVID-19 website

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