Commercial Fixed Wing
Flight Attendant Current
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Illness / Injury; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Passenger Misconduct
General None Reported / Taken
Company Policy; Environment - Non Weather Related; Human Factors
During boarding; I noticed a passenger step on to the plane with a mask around his neck. I said hello and he said hello back. When he turned right to head down the aisle; he stopped almost as soon as he stepped on to the carpet. I stepped forward from the galley to see why he had stopped. I saw him turn his head completely to the left so that his face was now facing mine; with approximately 18' between us. He sneezed directly in my face; making no attempt to cover his mouth; pull up his mask or turn towards the row 1 window. I immediately stepped back; grabbed a C-fold and blotted my face. I politely asked him to cover his mouth and/or wear his mask if he needs to sneeze or cough. He said okay and proceeded to a seat. I don't believe his behavior was intentional; but I was still exposed to any germs he has. I was wearing a mask; but no eye glasses or goggles to cover my eyes. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic; this is an even greater safety concern than it normally would have been.Not sure what else could have been done; as passengers should always cover their mouths when they sneeze. Perhaps Operations could add some basic hygiene tips to their boarding announcements; like washing hands; covering their mouths; etc.
Flight attendant reported passenger sneezed directly into Flight Attendant's face without attempting to cover the sneeze. Flight Attendant suggested passengers should be given hygiene tips during pre-boarding announcements.