Click the play button on the video window to the right to see the storyPHOENIX - - From the moment you get out of your car to the time you take your seat in the airplane, think about what you've touched and how many germs may have hitched a ride on your hands, clothes or luggage.
The average flyer, starting at the security checkpoint, can certainly run across a lot of bacteria and germs.
Whether it's placing your hand on the poles while waiting in line at the security checkpoint, taking your shoes off to walk through the metal detector or taking a seat at the gate and putting your hands on the arm-rest, the chances of spreading germs is quite easy.
"I'm always careful about germs and even more so now with the regular flu and Swine Flu," said Donna Curll after arriving at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.
It's not uncommon to hear passengers admit they are now taking precautions to protect themselves against the H1N1 virus.
"While waiting to get on a plane I'll sit by myself if I can, but once you get on the plane you're at the mercy of whoever is around you," said airline passenger Jeff Hill.
According to various reports, there are several ways to protect yourself while on the plane, although some tips are unusual and debatable.
The main key to fighting off illness, is to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
"I do water definitely, it's important," said Curll.
Some experts recommend turning on the air-vent above your seat, point it at you, which could allow the blowing air to push germs away from you, others disagree with the recommendation.
Most airlines now have in-plane filters in the air conditioning system that can trap pathogens and protect passengers.
Another important way to protect yourself from germs and a virus is to keep your hands to yourself.
You should avoid touching your face after your hands have run across so many things in airport and inside the airplane. Once the germs are on your hands, it's easy to spread the germs directly to your mouth and nose.
"I always make sure I always wash my hands as many times as I can at the airport," said Hill.
"I do a lot of hand washing and I try not to touch so many things," said Mike Wolff after getting off a plane at Sky Harbor Thursday night.
Although bizarre, there are some experts who have recommended using a cotton ball or q-tip and coat the inside of your nostrils with an antibiotic ointment. It's believed the ointment can act as a filter and catch germs before entering your body.
For passengers looking for a little more comfort, bring your own pillow and/or blanket. Those items can cover the seat like a barrier and it can prevent the spread of germs, considering some airlines simply re-use pillows.
By far the number one thing to do to protect yourself from germs while in the air is to wash, wash, wash your hands.
Wash your hands often and if possible, carry anti-bacterial hand sanitizer.
According to published reports, some airlines are looking to place alcohol wipes, gloves and masks inside the planes for passengers, but some don't think that's a good idea.
"I think that move would be unnecessary, I don't think it's the airline's jobs to do that, I think people need to take personal responsibility for their protection," said Hill. "I look around at foreign travelers and if there's an outbreak, they always wear a mask, why can't we do the same."
