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Holiday travel: tips on staying healthy

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) --  It is that time of the year when millions of people travel to spend time with family or take a vacation.

But experts say planes, trains, buses and automobiles could be a breeding ground for the common cold.

Dr. Nick Peterkin, from Tallahassee Memorial Hospital says, "The Rhinovirus and Adenovirus are the two big culprits. These two are respiratory viruses and they are airbourne. Sneezing coughing mucus spreads in the air and when we are packed in tightly into tight spaces with an air system that might be limited without filters we are exposed to it."

Travelling can wear you out and holiday stress could also impact your health. Here's what you can do to fight off getting sick.

Dr. Peterkin says, "Get adequate sleep eight to nine hours at night. Stay well hydrated. Eat a well balanced diet those are key elements to staying healthy."

Experts say be prepared for anything when your on vacation.

They suggest you take a first aid kit just in case. If you wear glasses or contacts take a second pair and invest in an eyeglass repair kit.

And if you have a pre-existing health condition and are under frequent care tell your doctor where you are going so he or she can get you a name of a local doctor in case you become ill.

They say if you take medication always bring extra doses and keep it in your carry on--just in case your main luggage gets lost.

Dr. Peterkin suggest, "Definitely organization is key and having medicines as carry on is absolutely key because losing your luggage in never fun."

Experts say motion sickness medicine is a must because you never know when things may get bumpy.