SAN JUAN — Based on updated data published by the Walgreens Respiratory Illness Index, vacationers visiting a few favorite locations this winter should get their annual flu shot before traveling.
The Index recently ranked New York, Puerto Rico, and Hawaii at the top of its list of influenza-related activity.
By analyzing prescription data, the Index helps people see where influenza activity is high and guides symptoms and when to seek care.
In a press release on December 3, 2025, Rachel Toothman, Walgreens pharmacist and director of pharmacy and retail for the Detroit, Michigan, and Cleveland, Ohio areas, shared quick tips to help people protect their health during travel.
“Keep your hands clean by washing often and using plenty of sanitizer,” Toothman says. “Hand hygiene is the first line of defense.”
“You may consider immune boosters before your trip, like Vitamin C.”
“The No. 1 way to protect yourself and others is to get vaccinated for the respiratory diseases most common this time of year,” Toothman added.