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Americans across the country are preparing to travel for the Christmas and holiday season, with many hopping on planes to see friends and loved ones. 3.1 million people, the highest ever Traveler was screened by TSA Expect more on Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend, and even more on Christmas.
But in a crowded airport or a packed plane, it’s easy. widespread disease.
Dr. Neha Pathak, chief physician editor for health and lifestyle medicine at WebMD, said the biggest risks for travelers may not be what they touch, but what they breathe.
“Most respiratory viruses Influenza or new coronavirus Spread primarily through the air, [through] It’s not from the tray table or the armrest, it’s close contact,” Pathak told FOX News Digital.
She added: “Hands are a really important part here… By regularly cleaning your hands and avoiding touching your face, you can dramatically reduce the risks posed by surfaces.”
Planes are packed and airports are sure to be crowded this holiday season, making it easier for the disease to spread. Medical experts have revealed the best places to sit to avoid getting sick. (St. Petersburg)
She said when it comes to surfaces, it’s classic.Stomach bug It is the pathogen of greatest concern to her.
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She said viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection that includes symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting and nausea, and is “incredibly durable,” according to the Mayo Clinic. “And it can stay alive on surfaces for days.”
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He added: “That makes them perfect candidates for surface transmission in places like airplanes, especially in restrooms and high-touch areas.”
When it comes to surfaces, the pathogens that some medical professionals are most concerned about are classic “stomach bugs.” (St. Petersburg)
“Viruses that cause vomiting and diarrhea are more likely to land on tray tables than viruses that cause influenza or COVID-19,” she says.
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With that in mind, Pathak revealed that a window seat away from the toilet is best on a plane to avoid getting sick.
A record 3.1 million travelers were screened by the TSA on Sunday over Thanksgiving weekend, and even more are expected for Christmas travel. (Jim Vondruska/Getty Images)
“There are fewer people passing each other, less exposure to traffic in the aisles, and overall Close contacts decrease” said Pathak.
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She also recommended wearing a mask For those who want to avoid illness.
One doctor says he always turns on the overhead vents on planes. (St. Petersburg)
Pathak turned on the overhead fan, washed and sanitized his hands frequently, Avoid touching her face — especially her mouth and nose while on the plane.
