The common situation of falling sick when on holidays is referred to as “Leisure Sickness” by The Guardian. Studies show that three key factors may result in leisure sickness. 
  First, stress and busy workloads may direct our brain’s attention away from our body’s signals. Indeed, many people feel stressed a few days or weeks preceding a vacation. The immune system shifts into a high gear and people push their limits, sleeping less and not being attentive to the signals from the body. Once these persons are finally off work, their body lets its guard down. That’s when the infamous sore throat or fever appears. 

Secondly, the change in habits and schedule is also a driving cause of leisure sickness. If you’re on holiday, you’re certainly eating things you usually don’t eat and more of it. You’re probably drinking more than usual, doing activities your body is not used to. With a body still recovering from your fast-paced work schedule, it may not be able to cope which is why you may get ill.

Finally, leisure sickness can also be credited to the actual travel itself. Indeed, today’s modes of transportation are one of the leading cause contributing to the transmission of viruses and germs. It is highly likely to catch a bug when being in confined spaces with lots of traffic such as airplanes, airports, trains and train stations. Being in close proximity of many people, some of those probably already suffering from a virus or a bug, is very hard for your immune system to cope with. In addition, if you are traveling abroad, you will probably be facing viruses and bugs than are foreign to your immune system. 

To put all the chances on your side and avoid getting ill while on vacation follow these health and travel tips: 
 

• Manage your stress levels before you travel and don’t overwork yourself. Keep a healthy and balanced schedule.
• Boost your immune system with a nourishing diet which includes a lot of fruits, vegetables, multivitamin and omega-3 supplements.
• Exercise before your travel and try to keep a light exercise routine throughout your trip.
• Stay well hydrated throughout the trip.
• Pack disinfectant wipes and wipe down tray tables, seat arms, remote control devices, touch screens.
• Always wash your hands before touching your eyes or nose and before eating.
• Sleep well. Ensuring you sleep enough and are well rested will help your immune system fight against aggressive bugs.