The new strain of coronavirus has caused serious health concerns around the globe. Yet there are many common sense precautions one can take to limit the chance of exposure to all kinds of bacteria and viruses, whether you work onshore in an office or travel great distances to board a vessel.

GET A FLU SHOT

While influenza usually causes only discomfort and lost work days, the disease is in fact serious and potential deadly. The World Health Organization estimates between 250,000 and 500,000 people die of the disease worldwide each year. Though not 100% effective, an annual flu shot is your best way to spare yourself from the disease.

STAY HYDRATED

When the delicate tissues in your nose and airways dry out, they are more susceptible to bacteria and viruses. Drinking regularly – particularly in low humidity environments like an airplane – can help your body fight off infection.

WASH YOUR HANDS

This includes hand washing with soap and water or hand sanitizer with a 60 to 95% alcohol content. Make it a family routine to wash hands as soon as you walk into your home or work to keep outside germs away from family members and colleagues.

KEEP YOUR SEAT AND SPACE CLEAN

Some germs can stay on hard surfaces for up to 24 hours. Therefore, when you are traveling, use disposable cleaning cloths to wipe down arm rests, seat belt buckles, tray tables, overhead buttons, and even headrests. At the office, cleaning your computer keyboard, workstation, and phone regularly will limit your germ exposure.

TAKE PROBIOTICS, VITAMIN C, AND A MULTIVITAMIN WITH ZINC

Some studies show that these prophylactic treatments, if taken regularly for up to two or three weeks before contact, have some success in preventing digestive illness (in the case of probiotics) and common colds (in the case of the vitamins). They have few negative side-effects, and they might provide you with another layer of protection.

BE CAREFUL USING PUBLICLY ACCESSIBLE TOILETS

Common use toilets – in an office or on a plane – are a common source of germ transfer. Using paper towels when touching the toilet seat, faucet, or even the door latch can be an easy way to stay germ free.

TRY TO NOT TOUCH YOUR FACE

Even if your hands are clean, it is best to keep them away from your face. Rubbing your eyes, nose, and mouth is an easy way for droplet-transporting illnesses like colds, flu, and other diseases to enter your system, so try to avoid it as much as possible.

WEAR A MASK

For those who are really concerned about getting sick – or if you feel you might be coming down with something yourself – a mask is a great tool. Even if you choose to not wear it the whole time, it is a good idea to carry a mask in case you sit near someone who is ill.