Travel Health: 7 Ways to Avoid Germs on an Airplane
How to Stay Healthy on a Plane
By Beth Collins
There's something about airplanes that just screams germs. The enclosed space, the recycled air, the guy sitting next to you who refuses to cover his mouth when he coughs -- it's enough to make you want to de-plane and drive to your destination instead.
Thankfully, planes aren't as teeming with germs as you might think, thanks to air filters that help reduce the number of microscopic viruses and bacteria. In fact, you're more likely to catch something in the airport than on the flight, says Dr. Abinash Virk, an infectious disease expert with the Mayo Clinic (www.mayoclinic.com). Still, airplanes are by no means germ-free. Follow Dr. Virk's tips for staying healthy en route to your vacation (face masks not required).
Photo Caption: If you want to guard against germs on a plane, wearing a face mask isn't necessary. Photo by Bob B. Brown/Flickr.com
