What to do if you are sick and have to fly?

Taking to the Skies When Feeling Under the Weather: A Guide to Flying Sick

Flying while sick is a predicament many face, a stressful mix of travel plans and health concerns. The urge to push through can be strong, but prioritizing your health and the well-being of fellow passengers is crucial. This guide outlines how to navigate this tricky situation responsibly.

The First and Most Important Step: Consult a Doctor

Before even considering boarding that plane, schedule a telehealth appointment or visit your doctor. Explain your symptoms and your upcoming travel plans. They can assess your condition, advise on whether flying is safe, and recommend appropriate medication or precautions. This is especially vital if you have a pre-existing condition or are experiencing symptoms like fever, severe cough, or difficulty breathing. Your doctor can also provide a note confirming your fitness to fly (or lack thereof), which may be helpful for airlines or insurance purposes.

Rescheduling: The Best Option (Whenever Possible)

If your doctor advises against flying, or if your symptoms are moderate to severe, rescheduling your trip is the best course of action. Contact your airline as soon as possible to explore your options. Many airlines have flexible rebooking policies, particularly for medical reasons. Be prepared to provide documentation from your doctor if necessary. While rescheduling might disrupt your plans, it’s far better than risking your health and potentially exposing others to illness.

Flying When Rescheduling Isn’t Feasible:

Sometimes, rescheduling isn’t an option due to work commitments, non-refundable bookings, or other unavoidable circumstances. If you must fly while unwell, prioritize minimizing the risk to others:

• Thorough Hygiene Practices: This is paramount. Pack ample hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol), disinfectant wipes, and disposable tissues. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, using soap and water whenever possible. Avoid touching your face, and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue (dispose of it immediately) or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Consider wearing a high-quality face mask throughout the flight.

• Strategic Boarding: Early boarding allows you to secure a less crowded area on the plane, potentially reducing your contact with other passengers. If possible, choose a window seat to minimize interactions.

• Hydration and Rest: Staying hydrated is crucial when you’re unwell. Bring plenty of water onboard. While sleep is difficult on a plane, try to rest as much as possible to help your body fight off illness.

• Inform the Cabin Crew: While not always necessary, informing the cabin crew about your illness allows them to be prepared and take appropriate precautions if needed. They may offer assistance or have specific procedures in place.

• Post-Flight Precautions: After landing, continue to prioritize hygiene and rest. Monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical attention if they worsen.

When to Absolutely Avoid Flying:

If you have a contagious illness like measles, chickenpox, or whooping cough, flying is absolutely contraindicated. These illnesses pose a significant risk to other passengers and should be managed under the guidance of a healthcare professional before travel is even considered. The same applies to conditions involving severe respiratory distress or uncontrolled vomiting/diarrhea.

Flying sick is a judgment call, heavily influenced by the severity of your illness. Prioritize your health and the health of others by making responsible choices. While the urge to travel might be strong, it’s never worth jeopardizing your well-being or potentially causing illness to others.