Flying home for the holidays during flu season is stressful, especially when surrounded by other travelers who are coughing and sneezing. For individuals recovering from trauma, or susceptible to illness, the exposure to viruses and bacteria while traveling is particularly worrisome.

What part of the Airplane has the most Germs?

While many believe the recycled air on an aircraft increases the risk of respiratory infection this is actually not true. Several studies indicate that special air filtration systems including HEPA filters, heating and cooling mechanisms and specially designed air flow that recirculates the air from top to bottom (not from front to back) reduces the risk of getting sick from the air on an airplane. The dirtiest part of the plane is the bathroom and the aisle.

Clean the Surfaces

One’s physical location on the plane seems to have a significant impact on the likelihood of picking up a virus. A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases analyzed an outbreak of virus on an airplane and found that sitting on the aisle or near a tour group increased the risk of contracting a virus. When on the aisle you are more likely to be exposed to someone who is sick.

Regardless of where you sit, cleaning the area can remove some infectious organisms. When you get to your seat, a cleaning wipe that kills both viruses and bacteria should be used on the arm rests, head rest and tray table.

Public toilets harbor countless bacteria and viruses. Bacteriologic studies of airplanes show that “Bacterial diversity was highest on lavatory surfaces, including door handles, toilet handles, and sink faucets.” Even if you wash your hands in the sink, it’s a good idea to use hand sanitizer afterward.

Everyone can benefit from following certain precautions when flying. Recovering from an accident or injury places strain on the immune system, so not sitting on the aisle, cleaning your area and using hand sanitizer while traveling this holiday season can make a difference in the likelihood of getting sick.

Dr. Greg Vigna, critical injury attorney and Certified Life Care Planner, has helped the seriously injured and chronically ill recover for nearly 20 years. Contact him today for more information on how he can help you after your accident.

Leder, K. K., & Newman, D. D. (2005). Respiratory infections during air travel. Internal Medicine Journal, 35(1), 50-55. doi:10.1111/j.1445-5994.2004.00696.x

McManus, C. J., & Kelley, S. T. (2005). Molecular survey of aeroplane bacterial contamination. Journal Of Applied Microbiology, 99(3), 502-508. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2672.2005.02651.x