INSIDE EDITION reports on how to stay healthy and not catch a cold or flu while traveling on airplanes during this busy holiday season.
Airlines are doing everything they can to get you to your destination on time. But with planes packed with passengers, there are some practical tips on to stay healthy on airplanes.
With peak travel and winter weather, lengthy delays are aggrevating, but beside getting hot under the collar, viruses can spread like wildfire when a plane's filtered air circulation is turned off. While the FAA advised that if delays of more than 30 minutes occur, passengers should be evacuated.
INSIDE EDITION's Megan Alexander took to the skies to show you what to look out for.
First tip: Open the overhead air vent and direct the air so it blows in front of your face.
Dr Marc Siegel, author of Inner Pulse: Unlocking the Secret Code of Sickness and Health, says germs are lurking everywhere on planes.
Dr. Siegal told INSIDE EDITION, "Turning on the persoan vent will help blow filtered air that bolw germs away from you."
Seat back pockets are often stuffed with used and germy tissues—so be careful you don't reach inside.
Another tip to staying healthy: Stay hydrated. That will keep your energy level up and help you fight off germs and viruses. Drink as much water as you can.
And remember, the air quality on planes can dry out nasal passages.
"Those nasal mebranes get dry that's when you get your viruses," says Dr. Siegel.
A saline spray will keep nasal passages moist and reduce the risk of infection.
"Common surfaces, everyone is touching the same surface," Dr. Siegel says can be a big breeding ground for germs.
When you pull down your tray table, keep in mind that they can be infested with germs. You don't know how many fingers on that tray. Bring along baby wipes and hand sanitizer.
Wipe down the tray and then give your hands a spritz.
Bathrooms are a notorious bredding ground for germs. Use a tissue or sanitize everything you come in contact with and of course don't forget to wash your hands.
Finally, what do you do if the person next to you is sick?
Dr. Siegal said, "I would probably get up, and ask to move my seat."
Another tip: Avoid using pillows and blankets which can harbor a wide range of germs.
Spray, wipe and drink fluids. Simple precautions that can help you stay healthy on on a plane this holiday season.
