Claire's Articles
Health
Many travelers would swear that they get sick after every trip or vacation with out fail. They wonder if it was something they ate or too many Mai Tais at their all-inclusive resort or even the change from hot to cold weather. But a recent study says you could be 100 times more likely to catch a cold on a plane as you are during a routine day. In fact, one of my staff members just returned from Punta Cana, Dominican Republic with a nasty head cold. Its ironic as you would think that you would return rested with a nice tan, not pale, sickly and congested. It is possible to avoid the dreaded airplane cold by following a few simple rules.
Staying hydrated is vital. Drinking plenty of water will not only counter the overall dehydrating effects of air travel, which can lead to headaches, stomach problems, cramps, fatigue and more, but can actually fortify your preventative immune mechanisms to function better. Sipping water regularly throughout the flight may be more effective than drinking a lot of water at one time before or during the flight; this will keep your protective system from long dry spells. Stick to water - alcohol or caffeinated drinks will actually dehydrate you while in the air.
Nasal mists have also been found to be very effective in keeping your immune system working by keeping your nasal passages lubricated.
As always, don't forget to keep your hands clean. According to the National Institute of Health, the type of virus that causes the common cold and the flu has been found to survive for up to three hours on your skin or on objects such as armrests, TV remote control handsets, tray tables and other similar surfaces. The simple act of washing your hands with hot water and soap is a major deterrent against this transfer of harmful microorganisms. Try to wash before you eat in-flight - and after your flight as well. You can also wash up in your seat with an alcohol wipe or an anti-bacterial gel.
Using a germ-killing mouthwash in-flight may add another layer of protection while also keeping your throat hydrated. Just make sure your mouthwash bottle complies with the three ounces or smaller security regulation.
Many travelers swear by taking vitamins prior to and during their flight, and I am one of them. Large doses of vitamin C will help prevent colds and I always load up on Echinacea and zinc lozenges for extra measure.
Make sure you check with your doctor before trying any self- prescribed herbal concoctions, as often they can cause problems when mixed with certain medications and even counteract their effects.
Another preventative option is to wear a surgical face mask. Airborne germs are one of the top two sources of cold virus infection; some travelers have taken to wearing masks either to prevent infection, or when they themselves are already infected.
These steps are a few ounces of prevention that can be worth a pound of cure - because honestly, who enjoys getting sick?
