My family and I recently got back from a mini getaway to NYC during the holidays and on our flight back home, I managed to get myself sick. I was literally in bed for 24 hours and did not feel back to my normal self until 6 days later, talk about ruining my New Year celebration! After much thought of trying to figure out how and where I got sick I realized I forgot to do a few important things I typically do before settling into my seat on a flight. Needless to say I was feeling a bit lazy that evening and now totally regret it. I caught the “stomach bug” which is apparently only contracted through fecal matter, yes I was beyond disgusted! I can safely say that I have totally learned my lesson and will now keep my seat and area sanitized at all times.
As we boarded our full flight my husband and daughter sat together while I sat by myself on the opposite side of the aisle. I honestly thought “Woo hoo I’m getting some alone time” but I paid for it 24 hours later. Since I was on my own, next to 2 random people, and not being cautious because my little one was not by my side I figured there was no need to sanitize my area or take care of myself. BIG mistake!
Now that you know the full story, let me break it down to you below on what I typically do to keep my family and myself healthy on flights!
As soon as you find your seats make sure to sit down and keep your child or children’s hands to themselves and pull out your trusty Clorox Wipes! This next step is very important, wipe everything down. Wipe down the metal part of the seatbelt, armrests, the seat in front of you, the tray table, the tv screen and the remote if you have one and the window and shade next to you. And if you want to be a little extra…lysol your seats. Yes, I have done this on long flights, LOL!! I promise this has helped keep my family in great shape after domestic and international flights.
One other thing, if and when you go to the restroom DO NOT wash your hands with the planes water. Studies have shown as well as flight attendants that the water on the flight is not sanitary for washing hands in the restrooms. I’ve also read that drinking coffee or tea on a flight uses that same water…I am not a flight attendant but I would rather not chance it with my family. I avoid all 3 things: hand washing, coffee and tea. Keep hand sanitizer on you at all times and just stick to bottled water, sodas or alcohol!
