(06-04-11) How Not to Get Sick from a Flight

A researcher who took swabs of various surfaces on planes in 2007 found the
surfaces contaminated with the superbug methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus
aureus (MRSA), norovirus, and E. coli. Norovirus and E. coli can cause severe
gastrointestinal symptoms and illness, including nausea, vomiting, and
diarrhea.

While no data exists suggesting that people are more likely to get sick on a
plane than elsewhere, it still is a confined space that can facilitate transfer
of germs like this, as well as diseases such as influenza. So what can you do
to protect yourself while you fly?

While numerous devices and germ-fighting concoctions can be purchased to
disinfect surfaces you might touch on a plane, perhaps the best defense is
simply washing your hands, experts say.

USA today also offers a few tips to help travelers avoid bacteria and viruses
that could make you sick:

Be wary of the airplane lavatory. Numerous studies have shown that these are
teeming with E. coli on almost every surface.
Sanitize your seat. Pack disinfectant wipes and wipe down any surface you're
using.
Protect yourself from sick passengers. Don't rub your eyes or touch your nose
or mouth -- that's how many diseases spread.
Don't go barefoot at security checkpoints. Wear or bring socks to avoid
athlete's foot and other fungal infections.
For more of their suggestions, click on the USA Today link below.

Sources:
The New York Times March 2, 2011
USA Today March 2, 2011

News

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In evidenza

"L'informazione presente nel sito serve a migliorare, e non a sostituire, il rapporto medico-paziente."

Per coloro che hanno problemi di salute si consiglia di consultare sempre il proprio medico curante.