Dr. Jordan Wagner, physician, on flying when sick: “Between the dry cabin air and the stress of travel, dehydration happens much faster”
Coming down with the flu or some other bug can be bad enough as it is, but getting on a flight will most likely make it worse for you and everyone else.
This year’s flu season is the worst in nearly 30 years, and on top of that people are having to contend with covid and RSV as well. While life doesn’t stop, when we come down with one of these nasties, we probably should.
And especially if we’re going to travel. Even more so, if we’re planning on catching a flight according to doctors. So, when should you cancel your travel plans and tuck yourself in until you get better?
Fever flying: When you should stay grounded
Being under the weather is bad enough but getting on a plane while sick can be a down right nightmare. Not only will you be putting yourself through unwanted misery, but you may just put everyone else that you encounter at risk of getting sick as well.
Basically, if you’re running a fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, you should stay grounded according to medical professionals. “A fever is a clear sign your body is actively fighting an infection,” says Dr. Jordan Wagner, board-certified emergency physician, speaking to HuffPost.
“Especially if it’s paired with chills, body aches or that deep exhaustion you feel when you’re coming down with something,” added the medical professional who is also known as ‘Doctor ER’ on YouTube. “Between the dry cabin air and the stress of travel, dehydration happens much faster.”
He also points out that if you are having gastrointestinal issues, think vomiting or diarrhea, that they can be “incredibly difficult to manage” while you are on a plane. It’s not just a question of maintaining your hygiene, and protecting those around you, but also a matter of flight safety notes Emory Healthcare family medicine physician Dr. Sarah Dupont.
Having a good travel insurance policy can take the worry out of having to eat your plane fare and other costs associated with your travel plans. You can also check with the airline carrier to see if you can at least change your flight schedule or get a voucher for the flight you are going to miss if you cannot get a refund.
But in the event that you absolutely must travel, you should wear a mask while at the airport and on the plane, preferably a KN95. As well, talk to a doctor to see if there are any over-the-counter medications that you can take to ease your symptoms. And last but not least, for the sake of everyone, practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently.
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