Last Updated: December 19, 2025
As you and your family prepare to travel during the holiday season, Richmond and Henrico Health District (RHHD) remind you to take important steps now to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Holiday travel and festive gatherings can increase the risk of spreading infectious diseases and encountering unexpected emergencies.
“Gathering with friends and family is one of the highlights of the holiday season,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Director Elaine Perry, M.D. “When we take steps like checking our immunization status, preventing seasonal illness, and making smart travel decisions, we protect our health and the health of our loved ones. Have a safe and memorable holiday, whether you are traveling or staying close to home.”
RHHD shares these tips to healthy and safe holiday travel:
- Check Immunization Status: To check your immunization status, call your healthcare provider or request records through the VDH Record Request Portal. Make sure you are up-to-date on all of your recommended vaccines. Measles and other infectious diseases can spread quickly in a large group of unvaccinated people.
- Prevent Seasonal Illnesses: Protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV by doing three little things: washing your hands, covering your cough and getting vaccinated. Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu shot every year, with a few exceptions. Talk to a healthcare provider about which vaccines are recommended for you and your family.
- Monitor Travel Advisories: Check current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of State travel advisories before departure.
- Pack Smart: Pack enough prescription medications for the entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep medications in their original containers and carry them in your hand luggage. Pack a travel health kit.
- Stay Home if Sick: Postpone your travel and stay home when you are sick. Consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance to cover expenses if you must change your plans due to illness.