Coronavirus and Trucking: How to Stay Healthy on the Road

With the rise and awareness of the covid-19 (coronavirus), as well as, expected flu season, it is more important than ever to protect yourself and others from these easily transmitted viruses. The covid-19 has reach “pandemic status” in the United States and many cities, states, and communities are shutting down events and large crowd attractions to encourage “social distancing”. Now, more than ever,  is a good time to outline ways to avoid catching airborne viruses, such covid-19  and the flu, especially in industries such as trucking.

4 Tips to Avoid Flu & Viruses on The Road: 

Know when to seek medical care

If you have a fever, cold-like symptoms, or difficulty breathing, seek medical care quickly to identify the cause of your symptoms and get the care or medicine you need prior to your next haul. If your symptoms start while you are driving or during your trip, seek medical attention from the most accessible provider. If you are away from your regular doctor or medical provider, find an urgent care or walk-in clinic, or use a telemedicine service such as GoMedRx powered by Everywhere.care. Some health insurance providers will also provide telemedicine benefits which would be a great option to receive medical advice for truckers on the road.

Use good hygiene

One of the top tips for staying healthy during cold and flu season is to reduce travel if you are not feeling well. Although this is a good idea in concept from the majority of people, we realize it is not realistic for those of us in the trucking and transportation industry. The best way to reduce the spread of germs is to practice good hygiene, mainly by washing your hands. The CDC recommends washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.

Maintain your distance

Protect your bubble! The World Health Organization, recommends standing at least 6 feet away from someone who is coughing or sneezing. The coronavirus and common cold and flu virus are often spread through respiratory droplets. When someone sneezes or coughs, the infected droplets enter the airspace making it possible for the virus to spread person-to-person. If you are coughing or sneezing and not able to stay home, think about wearing a mask to protect others around you. Protect your bubble and personal space by keeping your distance from others.

Consider alternate greetings

Instead of shaking everyone’s hand, consider smiling, friendly waves, or even a fist bump. Tell the other person that you are trying to keep your family healthy but are still glad to see them.

Coronavirus and Trucking

Covid-19 is in the United States and will spread quickly if we are not aware and using protective measures.  The trucking industry will keep on truckin even in the midst of this pandemic. If you are a trucker reading this, THANK YOU. Thank you for keeping our shelves stocked with toilet paper 🙂 and hand sanitizer. Thank you for your dedication to the road and the economy.

If you are on the road and develop flu-like symptoms, please contact your medical provider or urgent care provider.

ALSO, in case you have heard otherwise…coronavirus has NOTHING to do with Corona beer.  Cheers, friends!