For some travelers the mere thought of having to be cooped up with hundreds of strangers in an airtight environment is enough to make them sick. But are you really more susceptible to cold viruses at 35,000-feet? I have friends who have told me that they have boarded a flight feeling great, but shortly after they landed a horrendous cold set in and their vacation was ruined.
Is this possible?
According to doctors, there is little evidence that indicates riding on a plane increases the likelihood of contracting an illness. In fact, the notion that the air in planes is dirtier than in most office buildings is false. Experts say planes circulate air more often than office buildings. What’s more, many planes also use HEPA filters, which help filter dirty air particles. If that doesn’t make you feel better, consider this: Studies show your risk of catching a virus from an infected passenger is only about 1 in 1,000.
That being said, one of the major problems with the air in planes is that it is incredibly dry, and dry air begets dry mucus membranes… and that doctors say is what makes you more susceptible to catching a cold. If your mucous membranes remain dry for an extended period of time that passenger coughing up a lung in seat 32E becomes a little more threatening (especially if you are sitting in seat 32F).
But, don’t rush to cancel your travel plans. There are some simple steps you can take to help reduce your risk of getting sick:
Drink Lots Of Water. One way to lower your risk of contracting a virus is to keep your mucous membranes moist by drinking plenty of water. You can also bring along a nasal saline spray. Just spray the mixture of warm water and salt in your nostrils every couple of hours to keep the mucous membranes moist.
Wash Your Hands. Doctors say travelers should be washing their hands often to protect themselves against germs. Ironically, studies show that airplane bathrooms aren’t the cleanest places in the world. With that in mind, germ experts suggest you wash your hands then use paper towels to touch the faucet and open the door. It’s also a good idea to carry anti-bacterial wipes.
Wipe Down Tray Tables. Doctors recommend packing enough disinfectant wipes to use on tray tables and other areas around your seat. While it’s unlikely you will contract a major illness from touching your tray table or the window, studies show they are still covered with germs and wiping them down may help put your mind at ease.
Bring Your Own Reading Material. Trust me; you don’t want to know where those magazines tucked in the seat back in front of you have been. Studies show passengers admit to dropping them on the floor, stepping on them, even taking them to the bathroom. So does that mean you’re destined to get sick from reading a used magazine? No. But experts suggest you bring your own reading material just to be on the safe side.
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