With the holiday season in full swing now, we can expect to see an increase in the number of people traveling to see friends and family. Just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean we can take a break from following guidelines to keep ourselves and others safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read through the following recommendations for a refresher on how to keep yourself and the ones you love safe during this unusual holiday season. 

Wear a Mask

Wearing a mask has been proven to be effective in stopping the spread of the virus. Anytime you’re in public, and especially if you’re traveling, do your part by wearing a mask. The CDC states that it’s important to wear a mask even if you don’t feel sick because you could be carrying the virus without knowing. 

Practice Social Distancing

Whenever you go out, make a point of keeping a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. Being in close proximity to others is an easy way for the virus to spread from person to person, so be sure to keep your distance. 

Wash Your Hands Often

Aside from the pandemic, washing your hands often is just general good advice to follow to avoid getting sick and transferring sickness to others. However, washing your hands is as important as ever, especially if you’ve made travel plans. It’s also a good idea to carry a hand sanitizer, containing at least 60% alcohol, with you for convenience. 

Get Tested Before and After Traveling

Getting tested is a good way to offer peace of mind to yourself and those you’re planning to visit. Make everyone feel safer by getting tested for the virus prior to visiting family or friends. Remember, a test is only a snapshot of whether you had the virus at the time you were tested. It’s also a good idea to self-quarantine and get retested once you return back home to help prevent the spread of the virus. 

If you experience any symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, or fatigue, get tested at your closest First Care location. First Care is committed to making patients a top priority, which is why we are following all of the necessary precautions to keep you safe. The clinics offer both options to schedule a visit online or walk-in for testing. If you’re experiencing any virus symptoms, visit our website to find your closest location and schedule an appointment to get tested.