I was reading an article on the newspaper about how to stay healthy while air traveling. I think their suggestions pertain to flight attendants too. We travel much more frequently than any other passengers and thus, our chance of catching germs is much higher. There is always at least one sick person traveling onboard. Coughing and sneezing always accompany the growling sound of the engines. Sick people who show no sign of sickness are often more infectious than those who show signs because you let your guard down when dealing with them. Here are some precautions that should be taken when working onboard:
Stay hydrated
This is the simplest way to stay healthy. I always drink at least a glass of water (250ml) before boarding because I will forget to drink once it gets busy. According to the article, “the main reason airplanes raise the risk of infections is the lack of humidity in re-circulated air. As your body dries out, your nose and throat get arid and less able to trap germs.
They suggest using nasal spray or even just an atomizer of distilled water to keep the lining of your noise moist, which can help your natural defense system trap and wash germs out of the mucus membranes before they get established.”
Drink frequently. When you get a break, drink a whole glass, don’t just sip. This will ensure that you get adequate fluid throughout the flight.
Wash well
Wash your hands properly and frequently. I try to wash my hands between services, and every 20 minutes if possible. Don’t forget areas like your finger tips and nails. I never touch any fixture in the lavatory with my bare hands. I always use the paper towel to protect myself, especially when I have washed my hands. I use the paper towel like a glove when turning on and off the tap, squirting the soap, and of course, closing the door behind me when I am done. (sounds paranoid eh? but there are people who don’t wash their hands, or donī¹ wash their hands properly after using the lav and their dirty hands touch everything in the lav) Never rub your face with your hands (germs get into our body through our nose, mouth and eyes).
Alcohol helps
Rubbing alcohol that’s it….
According to the article, “even with the restrictions on liquids aboard planes, a 100-millilitre bottle of alcohol sanitizer will go a long way. And the good thing about a sanitizer is that once you get it on your hands, it keeps working.” Have a small bottle in the pocket all the time. Choose one with moisturizer in it will help keep your hands soft and smooth.
No matter what, don’t touch what you don’t have to.
This includes passengers, LOL
Eat healthy even when you are onboard
I always bring my own food to avoid those salty and greasy crew meals. Salad, sandwiches, fruit are easy to pack. I will post some onboard meal recipes shortly. Anyone who would like to share their recipes, please send them to me!
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