For many, summer is the perfect time for a family vacation or personal travel adventure. In today’s global society, with the ease of air transportation, it is possible to travel to any corner of the world. But while planes are amazing technological innovations, they can also pose several health risks. Frequent and first-time flyers alike should be aware and careful of these health hazards.
Germs and Bacteria
It turns out planes are teeming with bacteria. In fact, a 2007 study discovered that 100% of tested planes found MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) in high concentrations on foldable tray tables. This strain of bacteria can survive for longer than one year. In addition to MRSA, strains of E. coli were also found on the seat pockets on the back of each seat. Aisle seats have an added level of danger. In a 2008 plane breakout of norovirus, it was found that individuals sitting in aisle seats had higher risk of infection. Scientists hypothesized that as infected individuals went to the bathroom, they rested against the armrests of aisle seats, passing along bacteria.
Image Source: Elisabeth Schmitt
Pesticides and Bug Sprays
Often, the flight crew will spray the aircraft with pesticides and bug sprays to remove and keep away rodents and bugs like mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and mites. Though your crew may not actually use an aerosol spray, it is likely that the plane interiors have been treated with these chemicals. These pesticides are often ineffective and can be dangerous, leading to drug resistant pests and potential exposure of humans to toxic chemicals like chlorpyrifos, which in turn, can cause birth defects and genetic mutations.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Finally, flying in planes can increase the risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a condition in which a blood clot forms in deep veins in the body, often causing pain and swelling. The danger of DVT is that the clot may block circulation or may break off and dislodge in another part of the circulatory system, in the lungs, or in the heart, increasing the risks of pulmonary embolisms, heart attacks, organ damage, and death. Flying involves sitting for long periods of time, allowing blood to pool in the legs and lower extremities, increasing the risk for clot formation.
Flying can be a stressful experience, and getting sick will only make it worse. Be sure to stay hydrated and well-rested to keep you and your surroundings clean and sanitary, and remember to move around occasionally on flight and stretch your legs to improve blood circulation. Being aware of the health concerns of flying and preparing yourself accordingly can help keep your travel experience much more pleasant.
Feature Image Source: airplane by sigmama
