Although airplanes are thoroughly cleaned after passengers disembark, there are six items on board that can become breeding grounds for germs. Airplanes, being confined spaces with high passenger turnover, create an environment where bacteria and viruses can thrive. Understanding the potential hazards can help passengers take precautions and enjoy a safer flight.
Tray tables and Noroviruses
Tray tables in front of your seat hold food and drinks, but you should avoid touching them directly. A study from the University of Arizona found that these tables are often contaminated with MRSA and Noroviruses. Noroviruses are highly contagious and can cause severe gastroenteritis, leading to vomiting and diarrhea. With an incubation period of just 12 to 48 hours, these viruses can quickly ruin a vacation. MRSA, or Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a type of bacteria resistant to many antibiotics, making infections difficult to treat.
E.coli on armrests
Armrests are a haven for E.coli bacteria, which can survive for up to 96 hours. This prolonged survival makes them a significant risk. E.coli is commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals and can cause serious foodborne illness. Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, often resulting from poor hand hygiene. Considering the high touch frequency of armrests, passengers should be cautious and consider using hand sanitizers after contact.
Seat pockets as bacterial traps
The seat pockets often contain magazines and safety instructions, but they are also hotspots for MRSA bacteria, which can survive up to 168 hours. This is due to passengers leaving trash and used tissues, and these pockets are not cleaned as frequently. Seat pockets can also harbor other pathogens like influenza viruses, which can remain infectious for up to 24 hours on hard surfaces. This highlights the importance of not storing personal items in these pockets and using disinfectant wipes on items retrieved from them.
Bathroom door handles and flush buttons
The bathroom door handle is one of the most germ-ridden surfaces in an airplane, as not everyone washes their hands, transferring bacteria to the handle. Similarly, the flush button is contaminated because most people touch it before washing their hands. Bathrooms on airplanes are small, high-traffic areas where bacteria like E.coli and Noroviruses can easily spread. Using a tissue to touch handles and buttons can minimize direct contact with germs.
Holding onto aisle seats
During turbulence, passengers often hold onto the backs of aisle seats for stability, making them hotspots for germs. Aisle seats are touched frequently, not only by seated passengers but also by those walking by. This frequent contact increases the likelihood of transferring pathogens. Research has shown that bacteria such as MRSA and E.coli can survive on fabric surfaces for extended periods, posing a health risk to passengers.
Viruses on pillows and blankets
Pillows and blankets, provided by airlines on long flights, can carry viruses from previous users. Always check that these are sealed or bring your own. Influenza viruses, for example, can survive on fabrics for up to 12 hours. Using personal blankets and pillows or ensuring that airline-provided items are freshly laundered and sealed can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to these pathogens.
Protecting yourself from germs on airplanes
To stay healthy while flying, wash your hands regularly. If you need to touch the tray table, consider wearing gloves or cleaning it with disinfectant. Use a towel to handle bathroom doors, and keep your shoes on, as airplane floors may not be cleaned frequently. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, airplanes are cleaned more thoroughly, but personal precautions are still essential. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using alcohol-based hand sanitizers and avoiding touching your face to reduce the risk of infection.
By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of coming into contact with harmful germs and enjoy a healthier flight. Taking proactive measures can help ensure that your journey to your destination is not marred by illness.
