Q. Is it common for people to get sick when they're flying?

A. Unfortunately, it is common for people to get sick on a flight but the reason isn’t probably what you think. The common belief among most travellers is that the air in a plane is full of germs. This is sort of true but the air is actually often cleaner than the air you breathe when going to the moves, a sporting event, or in the airline terminal itself.

Q. What causes people to get sick on planes?

A.  Apparently, one reason some people get sick regularly after flying is because their circadian clock gets discombobulated. They get jet lag and their internal clock becomes seriously messed up causing fatigue, lack of sleep, and problems with our metabolic system and digestion. The disruption of our internal clock throws off the brain which regulates many other “clocks” that can be found within every cell and organ of our bodies.

The primary reason people get sick in a plane is the same reason they get sick anywhere else, close contact to someone who is already sick. Exposure to germs either from someone sneezing on you or touching a germy area and then rubbing your eyes or face is another way that people can get sick while flying. A high quantity of germs can often be found on chair back tables, seat rests, and even periodicals on board a flight.

Tips on how someone can protect themselves from getting sick on airplanes

• Avoid touching your face or rubbing your eyes.
• Wash your hands regularly
• Use an antibacterial gel
• Try not to sit next to someone that is sick
• Avoid jet lag by matching your internal clock with your destination
• Drink lots of water
• Stay away from carbonated drinks as well as alcohol
• On the plane, sleep only if it is night time at your destination
• Once at your destination, immediately align yourself with the current time
• Do not take naps