Title: Why You Fall Ill After Flying — And How to Prevent It
Have you ever disembarked from a flight feeling fantastic, only to catch a cold a few days later? You’re not the only one. Research indicates that your likelihood of becoming ill after flying might rise by as much as 80%, depending on your seating choice and how you interact with your surroundings during the trip.
Although air travel is one of the quickest methods to travel from point A to point B, it also poses specific challenges to your immune system. Let’s delve into the actual reasons that contribute to people frequently getting sick after flying — and what you can do to maintain your health on your upcoming journey.
The Reality About Airplane Air
A prevalent misconception about flying is that the recycled cabin air is responsible for post-flight sneezes. In truth, airplane air is cleaner than you may assume. Contemporary aircraft come equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that eliminate 99.97% of airborne particles greater than 0.3 microns — including the majority of bacteria and various viruses.
Approximately 50% of the cabin air is recirculated through these HEPA filters, while the rest is fresh air sourced from outside the aircraft. In fact, the air quality on a plane is frequently superior to that found in many office buildings or public areas.
So if it isn’t the air, what’s causing your illness?
The Actual Offenders: Proximity and Surfaces
The primary risk factor for falling ill on a plane is being in close quarters with other passengers. A 2018 study conducted by Emory University, Georgia Tech, and Boeing revealed that individuals seated in the same row or one row ahead or behind a sick passenger had a markedly higher chance of contracting an illness. Those positioned directly across the aisle faced an increased risk of up to 80%.
Frequently touched surfaces such as tray tables, seatbelt buckles, and restroom handles are also potential germ reservoirs. Coupled with dry cabin air, which can dehydrate your nasal passages and diminish your body’s natural defenses, you have a perfect storm for post-flight illness.
Strategies to Maintain Health While Flying
1. Select Your Seat Cautiously
Whenever possible, choose a window seat. This reduces your exposure to other passengers and minimizes the number of people walking past you. If you’re anxious about contact, avoid aisle seats since they usually experience more foot traffic and interaction with fellow travelers.
2. Sanitize Regularly
Carry hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. Clean your tray table, armrests, seatbelt buckle, and touchscreen prior to use. Wash your hands frequently, especially before dining or touching your face.
3. Utilize the Air Vent (Gasper) Wisely
As per Dr. Mark Gendreau, an authority in aviation medicine, you can establish a protective “air curtain” by directing the overhead air vent (referred to as a gasper) to medium flow, pointed just in front of your face. This creates airflow that can help divert airborne particles away from your breathing area.
4. Wear a Mask
Although not required on all flights, donning a mask can greatly lower your risk of inhaling airborne viruses, particularly during cold and flu season or in crowded airports.
5. Stay Hydrated
Cabin air tends to have very low humidity (10–20%), which can dry out your mucous membranes, making you more vulnerable to infections. Ensure you drink adequate water before and during your flight, and steer clear of alcohol or caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.
6. Refrain from Touching Your Face
Your hands encounter numerous surfaces throughout the flight. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth unless you’ve recently washed or sanitized them.
7. Exercise Caution at the Airport
Airports often contain more germs than airplanes. Security bins, check-in kiosks, and crowded queues are typical hotspots. Maintain good hygiene and practice social distancing whenever feasible.
8. Don’t Overlook Humidity
The dry air within planes can also trigger nasal congestion and a runny nose — not necessarily because you’re ill, but as your body adjusts to the shifting humidity levels. Once you land and enter a more humid environment, your body may overreact, causing excess mucus.
9. Equalize Pressure Safely
If you feel ear pressure while descending, avoid the common (and potentially harmful) technique of pinching your nose and blowing. Instead, attempt yawning, swallowing, or using filtered earplugs designed for air travel.
Final Thoughts
Becoming sick after flying isn’t unavoidable. Although you can’t dictate who sits near you or the germs present in the air, you can take proactive measures to safeguard yourself. From carefully selecting your seat to strategically using your air vent and adhering to good hygiene practices, a bit of preparation can greatly contribute to your health while flying.
So next time you prepare for a flight, consider not just your destination — but your health as well.