CORONA IS HERE????IS IT SAFE TO TAKE✈OFF? 

Since first being identified in late-2019 in the Wuhan region of China, corona virus COVID-19 has spread to dozens of countries around the world.

Here are some of the key details:

-Over 1.3 lac cases have been confirmed till now.

-4,729 deaths recorded.

-More than 120 countries have impacted including India.

-Number of cases “recovering” from symptoms over 68,650. Remainder still under observation or quarantine.

Here are some questions you might have in mind,

What is Coronavirus?

A large family of viruses, it causes illness in people & others that circulate among animals, including camels,cats and bats.

What are the symptoms?

-Cough

-Shortness of breath

-Fever

-Fatigue

Should you cancel your travel plans?

Dr. Carmen Dolea, Head, International Health Regulations Secretariat,WHO, says travelers not really necessary to cancel their travel plans but should take into account the various restrictions that airlines have put in place when planning for their next trips. Also, one should not travel to any of the countries for which the government has issued a travel advisory.

Is cabin environment in plane dangerous?

So far it is been identified that the virus is transmitted via droplets or fomites which means close contact with the people who are infected. So, it is possible that the viruses can live on the surfaces for short amount of time.

How to avoid catching the coronavirus on airplanes?

Respiratory illness on planes spread through surfaces like airplane seats and tray tables. So, sanitize yourself before and after using such things.

A study from Emory University found that during flu season, the safest place to sit on a plane is by a window. Researchers studied passengers and crew members on 10 three- to five-hour flights and observed that people sitting in window seats had less contact with potentially sick people.

“Book a window seat, try not to move during the flight, stay hydrated and keep your hands away from your face,” said Vicki Stover Hertzberg, a professor at Emory University’s School of Nursing and director of the Center for Nursing Data Science at Emory, and one of the lead researchers on the study. “Be vigilant about your hand hygiene.”

Is aerosol infection possible?

The air in the cabin is actually clean as there are specific systems in the airplanes to ventilate air in the cabins. So far, the virus is not identified as airborne.

Although the times are frightening, try to keep panic regarding Coronavirus at bay by being well-informed of developments. All I can say is be aware, be cautious and stay safe!!!