With the increasing global air travel over the past few decades, the viruses are more likely to spread swiftly, but airlines aren’t to blame alone.
Wherever people violate social distancing and other health restrictions are equally responsive to spread the Covid-19 virus. Owing to its highly contagious nature, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic.
During the Covid-19 outbreak, you have the opportunity to enrol for an online course to overcome your flight anxiety while following all other travel guidelines to stay safe and protected.
Regularly wash your Hands
You must wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (with at least 70% alcohol) from time to time. Experts agree that washing hands for at least 20 seconds is one of the best defense.
Best time to use a hand sanitizer if you come in contact with the following:
- Latches on overhead bins
- Plastic window shade
- In-flight magazines
- Bathroom fixtures
- Seat belt buckle
- Seat pocket
- Rubber armrest
- Lavatory flush button
- Security lines
- Airport drinking fountain buttons
Practice Good Hygiene
When a person coughs or sneezes, the tiny droplets of saliva or mucus release in the air that can easily spread COVID-19 virus and various respiratory diseases to other people.
Always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze to avoid spreading the virus to your fellow travelers and airline staff.
Typically, viruses enter the body through eyes, nose, and mouth, so avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
Clean Up
Most airlines are following a thorough cleaning process, but there is a possibility that every surface may not get the same treatment. Thus, carry your antibacterial wipes to clean your seat including window blind, hand rest, seat touch screen, air vent, seat-back pocket, tray table, etc.
The same advice is applicable for the other frequently used items by travelers such as elevators, holding handrails, taxis, shuttles, hotel television remote controls, etc. Sanitize your hands after you come in contact with unfamiliar surfaces.
Upgrade your seat
If your travel policy allows, upgrade your ticket to first-class travel. It will provide you with extra personal space that’ll help you to be in less contact with many other passengers
Stay clear of people infected with cold or cough
If you stay within 6 feet of an infected person for more than 10 minutes, it increases the chances of catching the infection. Being seated within the two rows of an infected person can expose you to the disease.
Also, remember that passengers touch many surfaces in the plane such as the bathroom door
Breathe Easy
Currently, most aircraft have HEPA (High-Efficiency Particle Arrester) filters to absorb up to 99% of airborne contaminants and dust particles, ensuring the highest quality of cabin air. Many specialists recommend that a window seat could offer you a bit more protection as it is away from passenger foot traffic.
Counteract Low Humidity in Aircraft Cabins
Due to low humidity, the mucous membranes of your mouth, nose, and eyes can easily dry out, making them more vulnerable to the harmful viruses and bacteria.
To avoid, frequent flyers use nasal sprays to moisturize their nose. Drinking plenty of water is the easiest way to compensate for the cabin dryness.
Have Up-to-date Vaccinations
At present, there is no possible vaccine available for COVID-19, but having all other essential vaccinations will prevent your immune system from being compromised. Also, those with low immunity such as patients with diabetes, cancer, and other chronic illnesses are at high risk. So, they should take regular medications and consult a doctor before traveling.
Follow Foreign Travel Advice
If you are traveling internationally, make sure you follow the travel guidance issued by the government such as the CDC guidelines during the coronavirus pandemic.
Be updated with the latest travel alerts including travel warnings, traveling restrictions, entry requirements, safety and security, visa extension, etc.
Travel Insurance
If you’ve got travel insurance before the outbreak of COVID-19, you may be covered for cancellations and medical expenses.
But if you read the fine print, you may find that most travel insurance companies exclude pandemics and epidemics in their policy.
So, it’s best to directly contact your insurance company for more information.
Conclusion
Due to the outbreak of novel coronavirus, global travel is restricted. People who recently traveled are advised a 14-day self-isolation to limit interactions with others and monitor their health.
If are experiencing symptoms such as frequent cough, high temperature, and difficulty breathing, immediately contact your health care provider.
