We are being urged to think about the risk to Cystic Fibrosis sufferers when we cough or sneeze on a plane.

The Cystic Fibrosis Association is proposing that airlines notify other passengers when a sufferer is on their flight and suggest that if they need to sneeze or cough, they do so into a tissue or their hand.

Campaigners say many people are unaware of the consequences for CF sufferers if others do not take extra precautions in a confined space like an aircraft cabin.

Ireland has the highest incidence of Cystic Fibrosis of anywhere in the world with 1-in-19 people carrying the gene.

While 1,100 have the full-blown disease.

'Zero cost to airlines'

Paulina Masterson-Hanrahan is a member of the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland and has contacted all the major airlines requesting that they permit crew to make an announcement when a CF sufferer makes themselves known to them.

This is much in the same way as they currently do for sufferers from nut allergies.

The Association says the initiative arises from an increasing sense by members that many passengers are unaware of the consequences of open coughing and sneezing in a confined space where everyone aboard is relying on a single and restricted air supply.

It says the problem can be addressed at zero cost to airlines and indeed costs may be saved if these actions reduce sick leave of staff.