Are passengers more at risk of catching Influenza A(H1N1) on a plane?
Influenza can be transmitted in many situations – at home between family members, in shopping malls, on the street, in buses or in aircraft. WHO has not identified any specific risks from air travel. Passengers should be reassured by several things. Modern aircraft have very advanced air filtration systems, which ensure a high level of air quality despite the confined environment. Aircraft are disinfected at regular intervals. And cabin crews have guidance on how to handle passenger who might fall ill during a flight. And, as always, it is important that any passenger who is unwell consults with his or her doctor prior to undertaking any travel.
