It’s that time of year: colder weather, holiday gatherings and a rise in respiratory and other infections. Right now travelers face a mix of COVID-19, influenza and RSV, plus common bugs like norovirus and some bacterial infections. Many of the precautions learned during the COVID-19 pandemic still apply and can help reduce the risk of catching illnesses while flying.
Wear a mask
Wearing a mask on flights reduces the spread of respiratory viruses. Studies found transmission risk on planes is very low when masks are used. The CDC recommends masks for sick travelers and for people sitting near someone who is symptomatic and cannot wear a mask.
Keep your hands clean
Hand washing with soap and water is the single most important infection-control measure; use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) if soap and water aren’t available. Carry sanitizer for use after touching high-contact surfaces.
Skip the bathroom when possible
Airplane lavatories are used by many people and can host germs on sinks, flush handles and door latches. For short flights, use the restroom before boarding. If you must use the onboard bathroom, touch as few surfaces as possible and use a paper towel on handles and faucets.
Stay hydrated
Cabin humidity is very low (around 10–20%), which can dry nasal and airway mucous membranes and make you more susceptible to infection. Bring water and aim to drink roughly 8 ounces per hour in the air. Avoid alcohol and excess caffeine, which can dehydrate you.
Avoid high-touch areas
Viruses can survive on hard surfaces for hours. Avoid using the tray table when possible—or wipe it with a disinfectant wipe first. Don’t store items in the seatback pocket. Wipe down overhead vent controls, lavatory flush buttons and seat belt buckles if you’re concerned.
Don’t touch your face
You only get infected when germs reach entry points such as your mouth, nose or eyes. Avoid rubbing your face unless you’ve just washed or sanitized your hands.
Consider gloves
Disposable gloves can help remind you not to touch your face, though they’re not a substitute for handwashing. If you use gloves, change them after touching shared surfaces and sanitize or wash hands afterward.
Choose your seat carefully
Aisle seats see more traffic and contact; window seats typically reduce exposure to passing passengers and are a better pick if you want to minimize contact.
Keep the air vent on
Pointing the overhead vent downward can create a flow that helps deflect airborne droplets away from you. Airplanes also use HEPA filters that remove most airborne viruses and bacteria; cabin air is refreshed frequently.
Prepare your body before travel
Stay up to date on vaccinations, including the annual flu shot, COVID-19 boosters and RSV vaccines if eligible. Prioritize sleep and a balanced diet. Supplements like vitamin D and zinc may support immunity, and some evidence suggests stressed travelers taking 1,000 mg of vitamin C daily may be less likely to get viral infections.
Bottom line
You can’t eliminate risk, but combining measures—masking when appropriate, careful hand hygiene, avoiding high-touch areas, staying hydrated, choosing a lower-contact seat and keeping vaccinations current—will lower your chances of catching something on a plane and help you enjoy your trip.
