You may be excited for your long-distance business trip, but by the time you get on the plane, you have come down with an awful cold. Your appointments were scheduled months in advance and it is not possible to re-schedule your trip. What can you do to minimize other people’s disgust at your condition?
- If you are coughing and sneezing, you must cover your mouth and nose while you’re having an outburst. Since you will spread your infection faster by using your hands for various tasks after coughing on them, try to cough into your elbow. Aim away from other people to the extent that you can.
- Pick up a nighttime cold medicine at the airport and take it after you get on board. It should knock you out and let you rest and will also minimize how much you cough and sneeze on other people while in flight.
- Drink plenty of fluids. It can be difficult to get adequate access to restrooms while traveling, but make sure you drink a lot of water and hot tea to clear out your head. Sit in the aisle seat if needed.
- Pick up wet wipes or a small hand sanitizer to wipe your hands after you cough into them.
- Do not use public facilities at your motel such as the workout room or the dining room if you are symptomatic.
- Tell your hosts that you have a cold when you meet with them and try to avoid physical contact. Use a medicine that will minimize your symptoms but not leave you completely messed up during your meeting.
