Can you go on a plane with a cold?

Catching a Flight with the Sniffles: Navigating Air Travel When You Have a Cold

The pre-flight buzz is exciting, but that feeling can quickly turn to dread if you wake up with a stuffy nose and a scratchy throat. Suddenly, the question becomes: can you even go on your trip with a cold?

The good news is, in most cases, the answer is yes. Airlines generally don’t have policies barring passengers with a common cold from boarding. A mild cold, with symptoms like a runny nose, minor cough, and a slightly sore throat, typically isn’t grounds for being denied travel.

However, responsible air travel goes beyond just having permission to board. It’s about considering the well-being of yourself and your fellow passengers. This means carefully evaluating the severity of your symptoms. While a few sniffles might be manageable, a persistent, hacking cough that’s causing you and those around you discomfort is a different story.

When to Think Twice (and Maybe Call a Doctor):

• Severe, Persistent Cough: A violent or uncontrolled cough can be disruptive and potentially spread illness to others. If your cough is severe, produces discolored phlegm, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. They can diagnose the cause of your cough and advise you on whether it’s safe to fly.
• High Fever: A fever is a clear sign your body is fighting something off. Traveling with a high fever can be both uncomfortable and risky, potentially exacerbating your illness or making you more susceptible to other infections.
• Difficulty Breathing: Any difficulty breathing, even without a fever, should be evaluated by a medical professional before flying. The changes in air pressure at altitude can worsen respiratory problems.
• Ear Pain or Congestion: While a stuffy nose is common with a cold, severe ear pain or congestion can be problematic. The pressure changes during takeoff and landing can cause significant discomfort or even damage to your eardrums. Decongestants or nasal sprays can help, but persistent pain requires medical attention.

Tips for Responsible Air Travel with a Mild Cold:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to thin mucus and keep your throat moist.
• Use Saline Nasal Spray: This helps clear nasal passages and relieve congestion.
• Take Over-the-Counter Medications: Decongestants, pain relievers, and cough suppressants can help alleviate symptoms. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for appropriate dosages.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
• Wear a Mask: Wearing a mask, especially during peak travel times and in crowded spaces, shows consideration for others and can help prevent the spread of germs.
• Communicate with Flight Attendants: If you experience worsening symptoms during the flight, let a flight attendant know.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to fly with a cold rests on your shoulders. Assess your symptoms honestly and prioritize the well-being of yourself and those around you. Sometimes, the responsible choice is to postpone your trip and recover properly. After all, a delayed trip is better than spreading illness or worsening your own condition. By being mindful and taking precautions, you can navigate air travel responsibly, even when you’re feeling a little under the weather.