How To Keep Germs At Bay While Traveling

There have been many studies done in this area and the following suggestions may prevent germs from finding you so that you don’t get sick while you are traveling.  Be mindful of where you sit on a plane.  If you hear someone coughing, they may have a cold or flu.  You can ask the flight attendant to seat you at least two rows away.  If you follow the two-row rule, your chances of catching germs is about 3.5%.  If you sit next to someone who is ill, your chances of catching it goes up to 7%.

Air on the plane is dry and you can be more susceptible to infection and dehydration.  The FDA and EPA states that air circulation is excellent when the plane is traveling.  It’s when the plane is idle that the air quality drops within 30 minutes.  You can increase hydration by drinking lots of water and dampening a wash cloth to breathe moist air periodically during your flight. Keep the dampened washcloth in a tightly sealed plastic bag when not in use.

You can also use the neti pot nasal wash routine to remove excess mucus due to congestion, rid nostrils of pollen and other allergens, cleanse nasal passages of dust, smoke and other irritants, relieve nasal dryness, dissolve mucus build-up in dry climates or in heated or air-conditioned rooms and to improve the flow of  breath.

It is believed that 72% of air travelers get the flu from a one source passenger.  In addition, to keep hydrated, eat a balanced diet of fruit and vegetables, exercise and avoid excessive alcohol consumption when traveling on an airplane.  Excessive alcohol consumption increases dryness.

Other areas where germs are likely to live are arm rests, the TV button, tray tables, door handles, pillows, blankets and air vent directors.  Direct the air vent away from you to avoid more dryness.

The tray table is a common source for potential germs.  It has been reported that parents use the tray table to change diapers.  Studies show that E coli and Mrsa have been found on tray tables.  These germs can cause serious health problems.

There is a 40% rise in bed-bug incidents on air planes, recently.  Check the headrest, seats and used blankets and pillows for a 1/8 – 1/5th inch bed bug.   Lice is another transferable bug found on head rests.

Water on a plane comes from a single source on the plane meaning that the toilet and faucet get one way water from the source. If you want to be absolutely sure that the water you drink is safe for you, drink bottled water. Consider purchasing a sealed blanket and pillow.  Kehie Traveler sells a tea-treated seat cover and tray cover for travelers.  The Doctors TV show recently suggested it for frequent travelers that are worried about transferable germs.

Lastly, carry a 3 ounce bottle of hand sanitizer with a spray pump and/or sanitary wipes.  Be sure your hand sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol.