Can You Fly With Chickenpox? Everything You Should Need to Know

Chickenpox, a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is often seen as a childhood illness. However, adults can also contract it, sometimes with more severe symptoms. If you or your child develops chickenpox, you may wonder whether it’s safe or even permissible to fly. This blog will cover everything you need to know about traveling with chickenpox, from health risks to airline policies.

Understanding Chickenpox

Chickenpox is characterized by an itchy rash that eventually turns into fluid-filled blisters and then scabs. Other symptoms include fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, and headaches. The virus spreads through direct contact with the rash or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

The infectious period typically starts 1-2 days before the rash appears and continues until all the blisters have scabbed over, usually about 5-7 days after the rash first appears. This makes chickenpox a highly contagious condition, particularly in crowded or confined spaces such as airplanes.

Why Flying with Chickenpox Is a Concern

There are several reasons why flying with chickenpox is not advisable:

1. Contagion Risk: The primary concern is the risk of infecting other passengers, especially those who are immunocompromised, pregnant, or very young. Chickenpox can have severe complications in these groups, including pneumonia, encephalitis, or even death.
2. Airline Policies: Most airlines have strict policies regarding flying with contagious illnesses. If you have visible symptoms, airline staff may deny boarding to prevent the spread of the virus.
3. Complications During Flight: The cabin pressure and dry air on planes can exacerbate symptoms. In addition, if complications arise, such as difficulty breathing or severe pain, immediate medical attention may not be available.
4. Legal and Ethical Considerations: Traveling while knowingly contagious can raise ethical issues and potential legal consequences. You might be held liable if someone contracts chickenpox as a result of your travel.

Airline Policies on Flying with Chickenpox

Airlines have varying policies regarding passengers with contagious illnesses, but most follow a similar framework:

1. Medical Clearance: Some airlines require a medical certificate stating that you are fit to fly. This certificate usually needs to confirm that you are no longer contagious, meaning that all chickenpox blisters have scabbed over.
2. Denial of Boarding: If you attempt to board a flight with visible chickenpox symptoms, airline staff have the right to deny you boarding. This is done to protect other passengers and crew from infection.
3. Refund or Rescheduling: If you are denied boarding due to chickenpox, some airlines may offer a refund or allow you to reschedule your flight at no extra cost. It’s important to check the specific policies of your airline.

Health Recommendations for Flying After Chickenpox

If you have recently had chickenpox and are planning to fly, here are some health considerations to keep in mind:

1. Wait Until You’re No Longer Contagious: The safest option is to wait until all blisters have scabbed over before flying. This reduces the risk of spreading the virus to others and ensures that you are past the most uncomfortable phase of the illness.
2. Consult Your Doctor: Before flying, consult your healthcare provider to ensure that you are fit to travel. They can provide a medical certificate if needed and advise on managing symptoms during the flight.
3. Keep Hydrated: Cabin air is dry, which can make symptoms like itching and dry skin worse. Drink plenty of water during your flight to stay hydrated.
4. Avoid Touching Your Face: If any blisters are still healing, avoid touching them to prevent further infection. Bring hand sanitizer and use it frequently, especially after touching surfaces on the plane.
5. Plan for Comfort: Bring any necessary medications, such as antihistamines or pain relievers, in your carry-on luggage. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to minimize irritation.

What If You Develop Chickenpox While Traveling?

Developing chickenpox while traveling can be stressful, especially if you’re far from home. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect you’ve developed chickenpox while traveling, seek medical attention as soon as possible. A doctor can confirm the diagnosis and provide advice on managing symptoms and preventing the spread of the virus.
2. Notify Your Airline: If you have upcoming flights, notify your airline as soon as possible. They can advise you on their specific policies and may allow you to reschedule your flight without penalty.
3. Isolate Yourself: To prevent spreading the virus to others, stay in your hotel room or accommodation and avoid public places. Consider wearing a mask if you need to go out, especially in crowded areas.
4. Inform Your Travel Insurance Provider: If you have travel insurance, inform your provider about your condition. They may cover medical expenses or costs related to changing your travel plans.

Special Considerations for Pregnant Women and Infants

Pregnant women and infants are at higher risk of complications from chickenpox. If you are pregnant and have been exposed to chickenpox, or if your infant develops chickenpox, take extra precautions:

1. Pregnant Women: Chickenpox during pregnancy can lead to complications such as pneumonia, or in rare cases, birth defects. If you are pregnant and have been exposed to chickenpox, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They may recommend a varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG) injection to reduce the severity of the illness.
2. Infants: Newborns can contract chickenpox if their mothers had it close to delivery. Infants under one year old are more vulnerable to severe symptoms. If your infant develops chickenpox, seek medical attention promptly and avoid traveling until they have recovered.

Preventing Chickenpox While Traveling

If you haven’t had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, consider the following preventive measures:

1. Vaccination: The chickenpox vaccine is highly effective at preventing the illness. If you’re planning to travel and haven’t been vaccinated, consider getting the vaccine beforehand. The vaccine is typically given in two doses, a few weeks apart.
2. Avoid Exposure: If you know someone with chickenpox, avoid close contact, especially if you’re in a confined space like an airplane or hotel room.
3. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the virus.

Conclusion

Flying with chickenpox is generally not recommended due to the high risk of contagion and the potential for complications during travel. Most airlines have policies in place to prevent contagious passengers from flying, and it’s important to adhere to these regulations for the safety of everyone on board. If you or your child has chickenpox, the best course of action is to wait until the infectious period has passed before traveling. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and follow the guidelines provided by your airline. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safer and more comfortable travel experience for yourself and others.