Spring Break 2024: How to prevent coronavirus and norovirus while traveling

Spring break is in full swing, and for many people it's their first proper vacation of the year, so while it's a fun time, it also comes with the risk of getting sick. The spread of the virus is rampant during spring break, when everyone travels between different parts of the country and crowds gather at popular spots like beaches.

In fact, wastewater analysis shows an increase in the prevalence of some viruses, such as norovirus and influenza, heading into spring. However, don't let the presence of the virus stop you from enjoying your spring break vacation. Instead, read on for tips on how to avoid getting sick, no matter what comes to mind.

When is spring break in 2024?

Spring break varies widely by school and region, but generally occurs any time from late February to mid-April.

Tips to prevent illness during spring break 2024

wash hands

No matter what virus you're dealing with, the CDC recommends washing your hands frequently and thoroughly. Washing your hands thoroughly means lathering your hands with soap for 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday) and rinsing with warm water.

The CDC notes that hand sanitizers are not effective in killing norovirus and cannot be used as a substitute for hand washing. However, they can be used together to control the spread of other bacteria.

use hand sanitizer

If you can't wash your hands, the CDC recommends using hands that contain at least 60% alcohol. When dealing with norovirus, keep in mind that there is no way around washing your hands as they are less effective against this particular virus.

please wear a mask

Wearing a mask remains the most effective way to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, RSV, and influenza. KN95 and N95 masks are the gold standard in terms of effectiveness, as they filter up to 95% of particles that cause airborne diseases such as COVID-19 and influenza.

disinfect surfaces

Another way to combat the spread of disease-causing germs is to ensure they are removed from surfaces. Disinfecting wipes ensure that the surfaces you touch remain clean. If you're traveling, consider wiping down airplane seats, tray tables, and other high-touch surfaces.

filtered water

You may have heard horror stories about drinking local water while traveling. For peace of mind (and a better tummy) during your spring break trip, we recommend using LifeStraw to filter your water. A straw-shaped filter that protects from bacteria, viruses, parasites, microplastics, dirt, and sand.

avoid dehydration

Staying hydrated helps your immune system fight off illness, and can reduce the excruciating symptoms of your condition if you do get sick. Additionally, using a water bottle has the added benefit of avoiding using a faucet that may have been used by a sick person. I recommend using my favorite water bottle, the Owala Freesip. Owala Freesip is spill-proof and keeps water cold for up to 24 hours.

Monitor symptoms with a thermometer

As the saying goes, the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry, so it's important to realize that despite the precautions you take, you can still get sick. Almost all the viruses you should worry about come with a fever (defined by the CDC as a temperature of 100.4°F or higher), so you should bring a thermometer with you on your spring break trip. The best thermometer you can buy is the Femometer thermometer. It provides fast, accurate results, has a silent mode, and has a handy high temperature warning feature.

exclude disease

If you happen to get sick, this combination test kit from Pfizer can rule out the coronavirus and two strains at once. We've tested it ourselves and it's just as easy to use as a standard coronavirus test, but it's more informative.