If you’re among the 4.7 million Brits planning a festive getaway abroad, you’re likely aware that air travel can be fraught with risks – and not just the ones you’re imagining.
Aircraft can be hotbeds of germs, and your odds of falling ill increase dramatically when you’re inhaling the recycled air of hundreds of fellow passengers.
Being in close proximity to an unwell individual can boost your infection risk by 80 percent. Research from the National Academy of Sciences suggests that certain seats on the plane can exacerbate this risk, reports the Express.
Those seated in aisle seats interact with an average of 64 people during a flight, compared to a mere 12 interactions for those by the window.
Jamie Fraser from Wild Packs highlights this as a concern, given the current surge in norovirus cases: “This means aisle-seat passengers are at a higher risk of contracting this while on their winter flights. That said, travellers shouldn’t panic.
“Modern aeroplanes are equipped with hospital-grade HEPA filters that circulate air and trap bacteria, meaning germs are unlikely to spread more than a metre”
Hence, it’s prudent to opt for the window seat, where there are fewer interactions with potentially sick passengers. Additionally, cabin air circulates from the sides and is directed downwards towards the aisle.
This implies that window seat occupants are the first to receive freshly filtered air, minimising your exposure to airborne pathogens. Fraser also recommends other measures to avoid catching an unpleasant bug, such as sanitising everything and keeping hand sanitiser handy throughout the flight.
“Use it as soon as you sit down, especially after touching luggage, seat belts, or overhead bin handles to minimise any germ transmission.”
While masks are no longer compulsory, opting to wear one could be a wise move to ward off illness.