As the COVID-19 pandemic begins to wane, your ability to get outdoors, travel and participate in activities will increase once more. However, being outside exposes you to health and safety risks, and if you fail to protect yourself, then you could wind up creating a lot of problems for yourself. 
Though you might have health insurance to help you if you do need medical attention, you shouldn’t have to feel like you are leaving yourself vulnerable to illness or injury when you venture out this summer. What can you do to protect yourself?
Common Summertime Health Risks
If you are planning to be outdoors a lot this summer, then consider the health or safety risks that might threaten you during this time. These might include common social and environmental hazards, which might include:
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Animal or bug bites, and stings. These bring threats of infection, allergic reaction and more.
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Heat-related illnesses. Sunburn, sun poisoning, heat stroke and other reactions might lead to significant internal and external injury.
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Dehydration due to both physical activity and increased humidity.
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Sports injuries like broken bones and stress injuries.
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Water-related injuries including drowning, hypothermia, pneumonia, aspiration and more.
Not to mention, standard illness risks can beckon at any time of the year, not just during the winter. Different interactions might always lead to colds, viruses and even the flu. So, how do you lower your risk of getting sick?
Preventing Summer Illness
You probably don’t think much about the risk of getting sick when you get out in the sun. However, you should keep a few common safety practices in mind, nonetheless. It’s more responsible to do so, and healthier for you in the end.
Make sure you have common necessities like bug spray, sunscreen, hats, water and snacks available with you when you are traveling or spending time outdoors. By being able to turn to these items as needed, you’ll reduce the risk of a sudden onset of illness. Additionally, if you plan to take part in special activities, consider whether you will need special equipment or safety materials in order to do so.
As long as you participate in any activity safely, then you have a much lower risk of getting hurt or sick. Of course, the better you take care of yourself in all aspects of your life, the lower your chances of getting sick during any type of activity. Don't forget to wash your hands, eat a balanced diet and get plenty of sleep.
If you need to seek medical attention this summer, turn to your health insurance plan. It will usually cover some or all the costs receiving care, with a few exceptions. If you ever have questions about where to get care, contact our agency or the insurance company.