Being surrounded by lots of people, in varying degrees of health or sickness, enclosed in a small, contained area, using recirculated air for several hours can lead to germ exposure. According to David Dale, M.D., FACP, president of the American College of Physicians, “People definitely should think about their health when they travel”. If you want to stay healthy on an airplane, there are precautions you can take.
Prevent the Spread of Germs
Step 1
Wash your hands. This can never be stressed enough. "Hand washing is the most important way to prevent infections," Dr. Dale advises. Washing the germs off your hands stops the spread of disease and illness. Use soap and warm water and scrub for a full 20 seconds. Get between your fingers and under your finger nails.
Step 2
Sanitize your hands with towelettes. Since traveling with liquids can be somewhat restricted, sanitizing towelettes are alternative way to keep your hands germ-free while on an airplane. Keep them in your purse or pocket so you can clean your hands before they pass out the pretzels
Step 3
Keep your hands away from your face, mouth, nose and eyes. Germs find their way into your body through these entryways, so avoid touching them unless you have just washed or sanitized your hands. Even then, keep contact to a minimum.
Step 4
If your immunity is compromised, or you have health concerns and fear getting ill, consider wearing a mask. The Cleveland Clinic states that lightweight N-95 masks filter out 95 percent of germs and particulates. These masks can be purchased at any home improvement store without a prescription. You can bring a mask with you even if you’re healthy, just in case the person sitting next to you has the sniffles.
Step 5
Stay home if you are sick. Traveling while you are sick, especially if you are contagious, will expose your germs to others and spread the infection. It also makes it more difficult for you to get well, will increase your recovery time and is generally not recommended.
Tips and Warnings
- New planes have better ventilation systems and circulate more fresh air, particularly at higher elevations. First-rate air filters also are better at reducing the germs and particulates floating in the air.
- Always be considerate of others if you are unable to delay your trip, or don’t think you are contagious. Wear a mask, cover your mouth when you cough, and use a tissue over your nose when you sneeze.
Things You'll Need
- Hand sanitizing towelettes
