Avoid these contacts during air travel
During air travel one should be aware and careful about the following in an aircraft because of hygiene issues:
Armrest: When a sickness-causing strain of E. coli was applied to the armrest it stayed for about 96 hours, much more than it would last on tray tables and toilet flusher buttons. So if you rub your eyes or touch your mouth after touching the armrest you are likely to risk infection.
Blankets: The blankets are generally re-used after being changed every morning. So if you are in the first flight chances are the blankets are clean.
Toilet seat: Do not touch a toilet seat with your hands anywhere, ever.
Toilet flush button: The sickness-causing E. coli stays for about 48 hours on the flush button, so use a tissue paper to flush.
Door handle of washroom: People are usually in a hurry and do not usually wash their hands properly. Moreover, the water jet in the tap dissuades one to spend time washing the hands. The best way to avoid contact is to use a tissue paper to open the door.
Since air-travel is in a confined space with all types coughs, colds and questionable hygiene habits of individuals, it is important that we avoid unnecessary touching of objects and if touched try to sanitize.
Written by: Dr. Ajay Sati.
