BEFORE YOU GO

Where possible, travel off-peak, out-of-season, or at less crowded times.

Have a flu jab – it is not too late. Flu vaccination does not protect against coronavirus but flu is currently a much more likely cause of fever and respiratory symptoms, now with the added risk of isolation and/or quarantine.

Don’t travel if you are unwell. who is coughing or unwell, take a different cab, or at least open the windows.

Hand hygiene is the most effective protective measure: stay aware of everything you touch and where your hands have been. There is no point being obsessive, and it is perfectly fine to touch things as long as you then cleanse your hands.

ON THE PLANE

Take hand sanitisers and antiseptic hand wipes, and use them immediately before eating or touching your face. Once seated, you can also use wipes to clean your armrests, touchscreens, remote controls and tray table – though it is not remotely practical to create your own sterile bubble.

Airlines generally clean hard surfaces throughout their cabins at the end of each day, and public health authorities are introducing stricter hygiene guidelines.

AT YOUR DESTINATION

You can’t control everything, and bear in mind that “respiratory etiquette” may not be fully appreciated at your destination. There’s not much you can do if someone coughs or sneezes at you, other than hope they are infection-free.

Avoid crowded places.

Dr Richard Dawood is a specialist in travel medicine at the Fleet Street Clinic, London