Germ-fearing travelers now have a
variety of new products to help indulge their phobia. Some items
(like washable plane seat covers) are low-tech, while others (a UV
disinfection scanner) sound more like science fiction. For
germophobes, however, the extra peace of mind might make all the
difference. Here’s a sampling.
* SteriPEN Handheld Water Purifier
(pictured above; $130; steripen.com). In 48 seconds, this UV light kills most
bacteria, viruses and parasites in a pint of water.
* Nano UV Disinfection Scanner ($80; zadroproducts.com/nano.htm). This handheld scanner
promises to eliminate germs clinging to a variety of surfaces with
a 10-second pass.
* PlaneSheets ($13 - $30; planesheets.com). To
avoid unknown substances, use these personal seat covers, which
come in a variety of chic patterns -- even “chenille cheetah.”
* Plane Clean Air Filter ($20,
replacement filters $7; www.planecleanair.com). It attaches to the air
vent above your seat and directs a purified “curtain of air” around
your face.