Air Travel Safety: ER Doctor Warns Against These 2 Mistakes
HuffPost • • health
Key Points:
- Dr. Anita Patel, an emergency medicine physician, advises passengers to sanitize airplane tray tables before use, as these surfaces can harbor bacteria, viruses, and gastrointestinal germs due to limited cleaning time by airline staff.
- Studies show airplane tray tables are among the germiest spots in airports and planes, with bacteria and viruses like cold germs, flu, and COVID-19 capable of surviving on surfaces for hours to days.
- Patel recommends applying sunscreen before flights because UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes, and window shades do not fully protect against harmful UVB rays linked to skin cancer and aging.
- She also stresses the importance of wearing seat belts at all times during a flight for cumulative safety benefits, encouraging passengers to adopt small protective measures without adding stress.
- Overall, Patel emphasizes practical precautions to help travelers protect themselves and their families, focusing on doing the best possible rather than aiming for perfection.
