Holiday Travel Risks and Tips

As the holiday season approaches, many Americans are gearing up for travel, flying to reconnect with family and friends. Just over Thanksgiving weekend, the TSA screened a staggering 3.1 million travelers, and that number is expected to rise during Christmas.

However, the surge in travelers means airports and airplanes will be more crowded than ever, which can facilitate the spread of illnesses.

Dr. Neha Pathak from WebMD highlights that the most significant risks for travelers aren’t just from surfaces but rather from the air itself. “Most respiratory viruses like influenza and COVID-19 spread mainly through the air,” she noted. It’s less about what you touch—like tray tables and armrests—and more about close contact with others.

Though surfaces do play a role, maintaining clean hands and avoiding touching your face can significantly lower the risk from potentially contaminated areas.

Pathak specifically pointed to gastrointestinal viruses as particular concerns. These viruses, which can cause symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, are resilient and can survive on surfaces for days, making them a threat, especially in high-contact areas like airplane bathrooms.

Interestingly, she mentioned that the viruses responsible for stomach issues are more likely to be found on tray tables compared to those causing respiratory illnesses.

To stay healthy during flights, Pathak recommends opting for a window seat away from the bathroom. This choice minimizes your exposure to foot traffic and reduces contact with other passengers, which is key in avoiding illness.

She also advises wearing masks, especially in crowded settings. Personally, she claims to regularly use hand sanitizer, frequently washes her hands, and always engages the overhead air vents on flights to create a barrier against potential pathogens.