IATA seeks to calm fears about Omicron
Following the spread of the Omicron variant, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has attempted to ease concerns over air travel safety after one of its own experts said the risk of catching Covid-19 while travelling has significantly increased.IATA seeks to calm fears about Omicron
According to IATA medical advisor David Powell; Aircraft passengers are twice or three times more likely to catch Covid-19 during a flight since the new strain.
A Bloomberg interview claims that Omicron spreads rapidly just as more people travel for year-end holidays.
More than 50% of cases that appeared in Europe resulted in this new, highly transmissible strain in the past weeks.
Although Omicron appears to be more transmissible in all environments than other variants, IATA has clarified that aircraft cabins are still very low-risk environments for Covid-19 transmission.IATA seeks to calm fears about Omicron
Low risks are a result of the aircraft design characteristics such as the direction of airflow, rate of air exchange, filtration. As well, forward seating, a well-enforced masking procedure, and improved sanitary measures are lowering the risk.
According to Powell, the aircraft cabin’s controlled environment adds an additional measure of protection compared to other enclosed environments.
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