COVID on a Plane

We’re never very far from being reminded about the COVID-19 virus; there’s more info every day. This week, I’ll review three recent scientific papers about the virus. Because I’ve recently flown on an airplane, let’s begin there.

We would logically think that when you have upwards of 150 people crammed into a box that the risk of transmission is going to be high if someone is carrying the virus. My observation, at least on the flights that I was on, is that the airlines try to keep people socially distant, at least as much as possible given the limited space.

One of the things that assist in reducing the risk of transmission is the way that air flows through a plane. The air comes in near the top of the cabin and then circulates down and out at the base of the cabin. Half the air comes from outside the plane while the remainder of the air is circulated through HEPA filters, similar to those found in operating rooms. The risk of viral transmission on an airplane is lower than in office buildings, supermarkets, schools, and commuter trains.

Based on current estimates, there have been only 42 cases of traceable COVID-19 infections from flying. Worldwide! While there are no guarantees, as long as we follow the recommendations of wearing a mask, not traveling while we’re sick, and washing our hands frequently, it appears that it’s a safe way to travel if we really need to fly somewhere.

Just a reminder that there’s an Insider conference call this Wednesday night at 9:00 p.m. ET. On this month’s call, I’m going to introduce a new feature that will be coming to the Insiders subscription portal.

What are you prepared to do today?

        Dr. Chet

Reference: JAMA. 2020. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.19108