Getting Ready for Flu Season as a Travel Clinician

You know that time of year when the pumpkin spice hits the shelves, the air gets crisp, and suddenly everyone around you is coughing into their elbow? Yep — flu season is back.

For travel nurses and allied health professionals, this stretch can be a bit of a whirlwind. You’re adapting to new facilities, meeting new coworkers, maybe even unpacking in a brand-new city — all while flu cases start climbing. It’s a lot. But a little preparation now can save you from a world of stress (and tissues) later.

Here’s your guide on how to stay strong, organized, and ready to take on flu season.

1. Get Your Flu Shot Early — and Keep It Handy

If you’re wondering how to prepare for flu season as a healthcare worker, start with the basics: the vaccine. Most hospitals require proof of flu vaccination before your start date, so save yourself the last-minute scramble by getting it done early.

Pro tip: Send your documentation to your compliance team right away. Not only does it keep your assignment on track, but you’ll also be ready for any back-to-back contracts.

Also, confirm your facility’s policy — some accept declination forms with masking requirements, while others don’t. Staying compliant early makes the onboarding process smoother and stress-free.

2. Wash, Sanitize, Repeat (and Don’t Forget the Phone Wipes)

We say it every year because it’s true: hand hygiene is your best defense. Flu season for travel clinicians means juggling new workflows and patient loads, but skipping sanitizer isn’t worth the risk.

Keep a small bottle in your pocket, your car, and your bag. Wipe down your phone, badge, and workstation often. These small habits keep you — and your patients — protected during high-transmission months.

3. Protect Your Energy Like It’s Part of Your Uniform

Let’s be real: surviving flu season isn’t just about avoiding germs — it’s about avoiding burnout.

Your immune system does its best work when you do, so keep the basics in check:

• Hydrate: Refill your water bottle before every shift.
• Eat real meals: Choose protein and produce over processed grab-and-go snacks.
• Rest: Sleep whenever your schedule allows. Even power naps help.
• Move: A short walk or stretch between shifts can do wonders.

As a travel nurse, you’re constantly adapting, but your health shouldn’t take the back seat. Prioritize it like your next shift depends on it (because it kind of does).

4. Build Your Flu-Season Survival Kit

Think of this as your travel nurse starter pack for flu season. A few essentials can make a huge difference when things get hectic:

• Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes
• Vitamin C or your favorite immune support supplement
• Extra masks
• Cough drops
• Cozy layers (because hospital thermostats are unpredictable)

Keep it all in a small pouch that fits in your backpack or car, ready to grab and go.

5. Listen to Your Body and Know When to Rest

Every travel clinician wants to be the reliable one, but pushing through illness can make things worse for everyone.

If you start feeling run-down or notice early flu symptoms like body aches, fatigue, or a scratchy throat, take it seriously. Contact your recruiter or clinical support team. At FlexCare, your health always comes first, and our team can help if you need to adjust your schedule or take time off.

Resting early often means recovering faster, and getting back to the bedside safely.

6. Remember Why You Do This

Flu season can be demanding, but it’s also a reminder of your impact. You’re stepping in when hospitals need skilled clinicians most. You’re the calm in the chaos, the experienced hand when teams are stretched thin.

So take care of yourself. Pack your kit, hydrate, get your shot, and give yourself credit for the difference you make every single shift.

You’ve got this — and we’ve got your back.