A COVID-19 positive test result is stressful under any circumstance. While alone and abroad, it’s really not great. Here are some things you should do if you get COVID while traveling.
COVID-19 cases are on the rise in different parts of the world. While countries have been slowly reopening their borders, over the past weeks the Delta variant has been steadily infecting more and more people. Even though the ones that are at most risk are unvaccinated, there’s also been more and more cases of breakthrough COVID-19.
Traveling is safer than it was a year ago, but it remains a complicated activity depending on the place you’re visiting and whether you’ve been vaccinated or not. The odds of getting COVID-19 on a trip are unlikely and very unlucky. Still, it could happen.
Here are 5 things you should do if you get COVID-19 while traveling:
Reschedule your flight
RELATED: COVID-19 Delta Variant: 4 Things You Should Know
Getting COVID on your trip means that you’ll have to spend some extra time there. The best way to avoid any extra fees is to reschedule your return as soon as possible. Based on your COVID positive test, account for the amount of time you’ll be ill.
You should also book accommodations that allow you to isolate yourself comfortably. Make sure that the place you’re staying has a kitchen and other options for food nearby. A pharmacy or convenience store is also ideal.
Write down everything
Monitor your symptoms and whether they’re improving or worsening. Be sure to visit a doctor if your symptoms start getting worse with time. You should also keep track of the times and dates you were tested, how long these tests are valid in your home country, the people you came in contact with, and your expenses.
Order what you need
Make a list of the things you’ll need, from medicines to your favorite snacks when you’re feeling sick. Since you can’t shop in person, be thorough on your list. Remember to add vitamins and Pedialyte to keep yourself hydrated. Be sure to have a thermometer handy, so you can monitor your symptoms.
Tell someone you trust
RELATED: When Can We Expect A COVID-19 Booster?
Testing positive for COVID-19 is stressful under normal circumstances, much more when alone and abroad. While you should be careful with this sensitive information, you should still tell people you trust in order to make you feel safer and better. Be clear with your feelings and don’t be afraid to ask for support
Take care of yourself
While being sick and self-isolated in a new place isn’t anyone’s ideal vacation, you should still put some effort into making the most of it. Watch your favorite TV show or a movie you’d been looking forward to or buy some flowers and decorate the place you’re staying at.
