It is being highly recommended that everyone avoid unnecessary travel; but of course with university all over the world closing worried parents want kids to come home, people away on vacation need to get back to their country and lets face it, not everyone can avoid traveling. If you absolutely need to do so, here are some tips on how to minimise your risk of contracting the coronavirus:
Firstly you should know that the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention have stated that risk of infection on an airplane is low, owing to how air circulates and is filtered making it that most viruses and other germs do not spread easily. But before you can reach the plane you need to navigate your way around an airport and this is where you are most at risk. It is therefore imperative that travellers try to avoid contact with sick passengers, and that they wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser that contains 60–95% alcohol.
If your airline offers the service, check in online in order to avoid queues and exposure.
If you are able to, bring antibacterial wipes containing alcohol to wipe down personal areas like your tray table, armrests, seatbelts, console and call buttons.
Beyond frequent hand washing, good respiratory hygiene and social distancing, following these guidelines will increase your chances of avoiding infection. Remember, if you do touch shared or potentially germ-ridden surfaces, avoid touching the eyes, nose or mouth until washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
