Health experts note your chances of catching a nasty bug increase dramatically if you're traveling this month — from tuberculosis, influenza, cold viruses, or other respiratory infections, Newsmax Health reports.

Stephanie Haridopolos, M.D., a board-certified family practitioner in Melbourne, Fla., and president-elect of the Brevard County Medical Society, says there are steps you can — and should take — to reduce your risks to make sure your holiday season is happy and healthy.

First, it's not too late to get a flu shot. There are several new options this year, including a new four-in-one vaccine that protects against four different strains of the virus — two Type A viruses and two Type B — one more than the traditional shot.

Other steps that can reduce your risk of catching a cold, the flu, or something worse while on the road this holiday season:

Pack sanitizer wipes and use them to clean airplane tray tables, bathroom surfaces, and anything else you touch. 

Don't be shy about asking to move your seat if someone near you is coughing. Better yet: Bring a mask you can wear if you think someone next to you is sick.

Open the air vent "gaspers" overhead as much as possible, which improves circulation, and point the vents over your head so the air flows in front of your face to deflect any airborne viruses or bacteria heading your way.

Try to sit near the front of the plane, where ventilation is best, and avoid aisle seats, which will put you in greater contact with potentially sick passengers.

Boost your immune system by staying active, eating well, and getting plenty of rest in the days leading up to your travel.

Wash your hands frequently, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer often — on and off the plane. 

Drink water or use a saline spray to keep nasal passages moist and hydrated. The air on planes is notoriously dry, which can increase your risk of contracting a respiratory infection because your mucus membranes can dry out.

Don't use those courtesy airline pillows and blankets, which may be loaded with germs from previous fliers.

Finally, Dr. Haridopolos advises not traveling at all if you're sick — for your own good and the sake of fellow travelers. Some airlines even waive the cost, if you cancel your flight because you're sick.

If you do get the flu, antiviral treatments like Tamiflu — taken in the first two to three days of symptoms — can lessen the symptoms, shorten the duration, and prevent serious complications, like respiratory distress.