What effect can low cabin humidity have on passenger health?

Low cabin humidity can significantly heighten the risk of dehydration among passengers. In a cabin environment, the humidity levels can sometimes drop to around 10-20%, which is much lower than typical indoor humidity levels. This reduction in moisture can lead to increased evaporation from the skin and respiratory system, causing passengers to lose water more rapidly than they would in a more humid environment.

Dehydration can manifest as dryness in the eyes, throat, and skin, leading to discomfort and potential health issues. Symptoms of dehydration can include headaches, fatigue, and dry mucous membranes, which might also increase the risk of airborne illnesses, as the body’s natural defense mechanisms can become compromised when dehydrated.

Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, especially in the confined space of an aircraft, where close proximity increases the likelihood of the spread of germs and can exacerbate the effects of dehydration. This understanding emphasizes how low cabin humidity can directly impact passenger health, making the choice regarding heightened risk of dehydration the accurate answer.