From airports to hotel rooms, Initial Hygiene Ireland shared their top tips for anyone travelling this summer, to help avoid falling ill abroad
As Irish holidaymakers prepare for their summer getaway, Initial Hygiene Ireland is encouraging travellers to prioritise hygiene while they are abroad to avoid falling ill while on holiday.
Busy airports, public transport, hotels and shared facilities can bring cross-contamination risks and the potential increased exposure to germs and bacteria.
Here are the best hygiene tips to follow that can significantly reduce the risk of getting sick while travelling this summer.
Pack your hygiene essentials
Before you travel, make sure to pack travel-sized hygiene products.
You should include essential items such as hand sanitiser, antibacterial wipes, tissues, toilet paper, a toothbrush and toothpaste.
Wash and sanitise
Good hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and infections.
Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using public facilities.
Use alcohol-based sanitiser when washing with soap and water is not possible.
Be mindful of high-touch hotspots
Airports, public transport, hotels and festival sites can all harbour bacteria on commonly touched surfaces such as tray tables, door handles, taps, handrails, lift buttons and remote controls.
Use antibacterial wipes where possible and avoid direct contact with surfaces in shared washroom facilities by using sleeves, elbows or toilet paper.
Protect yourself in shared washrooms
Wear flip flops or similar footwear in communal showers and toilets.
Avoid going in barefoot to reduce the risk of infections.
Protect against insects and bites
Mosquitoes and other insects can carry diseases in certain holiday destinations.
Travellers should check destination-specific health advice in advance and pack insect repellent – particularly when travelling to hot or tropical climates.
Check your accommodation carefully
Before settling into hotel rooms, hostels or other accommodation, inspect mattresses, bedding and surrounding furniture for signs of bed bugs or poor hygiene standards to avoid issues during your stay.
Colm Moore, Regional Technical Manager with Initial Hygiene Ireland, said: “Travelling should be about relaxing and making memories, not recovering from sickness.
“Good hygiene habits before and during travel can make a major difference to your health and wellbeing while you are away.”
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