When Travel Makes You Sick! Women’s Asthma and Allergy Experiences on Trains

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Abstract
Few studies have addressed the issue of allergies when travelling on trains from the user’s perspective. This chapter helps address this gap by presenting the findings of a small sample study on the perceived safety of asthmatic and allergic individuals. A questionnaire was sent to members of the Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association in the spring of 2022 (N = 66). Although most respondents felt safe during their trip, 88% declared feeling afraid of allergens onboard the train (e.g. nuts and peanuts, perfumes, and fur-bearing animals) when they were asked more specifically. Allergens were identified as the most frightening factor, imposing changes in individuals’ travel behaviour. The most common precaution to counteract poor safety was avoiding contact with certain people. Clearly designated areas without animals and perfumes, staff encouraged not to wear perfume, and accessible staff are commonly requested improvements for more accessible travelling.

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