How many times do you get sick after traveling or on a flight?!
Fact: Common bacteria found on planes include: Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Norovirus.
Fact: The most contaminated surfaces on an airplane include tray tables, armrests, and seatbelt buckles. Tray tables can contain more germs than a public toilet seat!
Fact: Tray tables can have up to 2,155 colony-forming units (CFUs) of bacteria per square inch, while the average toilet seat has about 295 CFUs.
Fact: ~ 20% of passengers may get sick after a flight, often due to close contact with other travelers – Especially passengers sitting within 2 rows of one another
Fact: Cabin humidity on airplanes is 10-20%, which dries out your mucous membranes. This will hinder your body’s defenses allowing viruses and bacteria to harm your immune system
Fact: Types of Germs Found on Seatbelts: Staphylococcus aureus: This bacteria can be found on many surfaces, including seatbelts. While it is commonly found on skin, it can cause infections if it enters the body through cuts or abrasions.
Fact: Bacillus cereus: This bacterium is often found in dust and soil and can be present on high-touch surfaces. It can cause food poisoning and other illnesses.
Viruses
- Cold and Flu Viruses: Respiratory viruses that cause colds and flu can be present on surfaces if an infected person touches or sneezes near them.
- Norovirus: Known for causing gastrointestinal distress, norovirus can spread through contaminated surfaces, though it is less common on seatbelts specifically.
Fungi
- Mold and Yeasts: While less common, fungi like molds or yeasts can occasionally be found on fabric surfaces, especially if they become damp or are not cleaned regularly.
More Facts:
1. Travel-Related Exposure to Pathogens
- Crowded Spaces: Airports are high-traffic areas where people from different regions come into close contact, increasing the likelihood of spreading infectious diseases. Bacteria and viruses can be transmitted through surfaces, air, and close proximity.
- Air Quality: The air in airports and airplanes is often recirculated and can be dry, which might affect respiratory health. Dry air can irritate mucous membranes, potentially making individuals more susceptible to infections.
2. Stress and Immune Function
- Travel Stress: Traveling can be stressful, and stress is known to impact the immune system. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making travelers more susceptible to illness
- Jet Lag: Crossing multiple time zones can disrupt sleep patterns and circadian rhythms, which may affect overall immune function and increase susceptibility to infections.
3. Security Scanners and Radiation
- Radiation Levels: The radiation from airport security scanners is low, but stress of travel and multiple radiation scanners in airports does not help to combat a lowered immune system.
Airports can expose individuals to increased risks of infections due to high traffic, stress, and environmental conditions. Keep your immune system protected before, during, and after flight is crucial to staying healthy. Use JSW to stay fully healthy
