Travel for business conference

This is an excellent question, @scottb32. I can certainly understand the frazzled nerves, and the fear about germs and sickness. Sooner or later all of us fellow transplant recipients hope to make that first step into the real world after our recovery. Congratulations on your recent transplant. It is always a joy to meet a fellow transplant recipient!

Here is a discussion which I started that might have some helpful hints for you.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/living-life-after-your-transplant/

I hope that some of our members will be able to add some tips to you about their travel experiences.
I fly once a year for a vacation in US. I think the biggest safety concern for me is germs. So hand sanitizer is a must! And I don't touch anything unless I absolutely must. The air on the plane really freaks me out - so I aim that blower right in my face; for some reason that makes me feel like I'm blowing the other persons germs away (this is maybe in my head, but it's what I do!).
Rosemary

I agree, great question, @scottb32! @rosemarya, I'm so glad you shared your post about life after transplant. Scott, I bet there’s a lot of handshaking that takes place at your sales meetings. Maybe you can adopt Rosemary's handshake replacement. It would be a great conversation starter at your meetings, to say the least!

Here are two other posts from our kidney/liver blog that may be helpful as you prepare for your trip:

https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/hand-washing-2-0-what-you-dont-know-can-hurt-you/
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/getting-ready-for-flu-season-should-i-get-vaccinated/

Safe travels!

@scottb32, Kristen mentioned that there is lots of handshaking. I have learned that if I tell people, in a very polite manner, that I am a transplant recipient and that my doctors do not want me to shake hands, and they are very understanding. Often they will often ask you questions, or even start a conversation about someone that they know who is a recipient, donor, or waiting. I have met some guys who like to fist bump, but that is not me. . And others who shake hands anyway, Yikes.
When I go to group functions, I try to get a seat at end of table, or an aisle seat.
@kequick, thank you for the resources.
Rosemary

Thanks for the ideas. Here's an issue that concerns me. Much of the office has been battling flu like symptoms. Many folks have been out with different illnesses. The Dallas area in general seems to be battling the virus. Am I putting to much thought into this? What should my real concerns be with this? Thanks Scott

That IS a good question,@scottb32. I think that is a question that you should discuss with your transplant team.
I do not think that you are putting too much thought into this! - I think you are being wonderfully proactive!! I am interested in knowing what they say, if you are comfortable to share.

I will be happy to discuss dining/food issues and how I navigate them, if you have any questions related to that.
Keep in mind that making choices is always necessary with our immunosuppression, but many of the more common ones do become a routine as time goes by.
Rosemary

Thank you Rosemary, I was cleared to go with the advice of bringing lots of hand sanitizer and to be mindful of my surroundings. I'm looking forward to working through my concerns. Thanks

@scottb32, Good for you! I'm glad that your transplant team was able to provide you with the answer to your big concern. Although a little bit friightening at first, Isn't it great to be able to resume your normal life? I send you my wishes for safe travels, and an on-time flight. Let me know if you come up with any other concerns before you head out.
And if you learn any helpful tips, please add them to our forum, so that others may benefit, too.
Rosemary
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@scottb32, Hi Scott. Have you taken your trip yet? How did you do with your new kidney? Did you learn anything about travel tips that you would like to share with us?
I would like to introduce you to @contentandwell, who is also a new transplant recipient. She has expressed her concerns about airline travel after her transplant. You can find her message at https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/living-life-after-your-transplant/
Have a nice day.
Rosemary