Traveling during a pandemic: what to take with you to protect against coronavirus

During a global outbreak of coronavirus infection, people store food in their home pantries and empty shelves of toilet paper. But what you need to buy if you are going to travel during a pandemic? Tells Fox News.

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Hand sanitizer

Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasized the importance of washing hands thoroughly with soap and water during a pandemic, hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol are a viable alternative in controlling the spread of the virus. The Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) stated that disinfectants are allowed in hand luggage.

On March 15, a federal agency opened new website, dedicated to answering frequently asked questions regarding standard airport security screenings during the pandemic. Specifically, the TSA says people can now pack liquid hand sanitizer—up to 12 ounces (500 ml) instead of the typical size of 3,4 ounces (100 ml)—in their carry-on bags.

However, disinfectant spray cans are not allowed in hand luggage or in checked baggage, this is prohibited by TSA. All other fluids, gels, and aerosols should be no more than 3,4 ounces in weight and pass through a security checkpoint.

On the subject: How to travel during a coronavirus epidemic without health risks

napkins

Are you allergic to sneezing? Keep a small pack of wipes on hand to maintain good respiratory hygiene and to maintain the health of others.

The CDC reports that human-to-human transmission of a new coronavirus occurs when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how flu and other respiratory pathogens spread.

Antibacterial wipes with alcohol

Whether you plan to board a plane, train, bus or ship during an outbreak, it's a good idea to wipe down everything in your accessible personal space with alcohol or antibacterial wipes, says Ohio State University infectious disease specialist Debra Goff.

According to Goff, it is very advisable to wipe the armrests, seat belt handles and tables, as well as offer wipes to neighbors.

“Unlike sharing bacteria and viruses, this is something you want to share,” the expert said.

According to TSA representatives, airline passengers can also bring individually packaged alcohol or antibacterial wipes in their hand luggage or in checked baggage - even large containers.

On the subject: 'Humanity will survive': a Nobel laureate explained why you should not panic because of a coronavirus

No mask needed

One thing you probably don't need to bring with you is a medical mask. Masks are ineffective for those who don't have symptoms — and the purchase is depleting supplies of masks needed by health care workers, the U.S. Surgeon General said.

“Seriously, people, stop buying masks! Dr. Jerome Adams tweeted about fears about the spread of the virus. “They are NOT effective in preventing widespread coronavirus infection, but if healthcare workers cannot use them to care for sick patients, it puts them and us at risk!”

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