Feeling Sick? Doctors Say Don't Board That Plane

February 16, 2026 | 08:41 am

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Traveling by plane is a popular choice for travelers due to its time-saving convenience. However, if you're not feeling well, you should reconsider flying. This is because the health risks at high altitudes are much more complex.

Several doctors have shared health symptoms that they believe should prompt a flight delay. The first symptom is a fever, with a body temperature reaching 38 degrees Celsius. Emergency physician Jordan Wagner says this is especially true if the fever is accompanied by chills, body aches, or severe fatigue. He explains that a fever is the body's way of fighting infection.

The same goes for a fever accompanied by respiratory symptoms such as a cough or runny nose. "You are at risk of infecting many other people and putting them at risk of severe illness or ruining their vacation," says family physician Sarah Dupont, as reported by HuffPost.

If you absolutely must travel for any reason, be sure to wear a high-quality mask at the airport and on the plane. Also, wash your hands frequently and take any medication recommended by your doctor to manage your symptoms.

Digestive and Respiratory Symptoms

Other conditions include diarrhea and nausea. These conditions can cause dehydration, dizziness, and electrolyte imbalance. "Gastrointestinal symptoms are incredibly difficult to manage on a flight, especially when access to medical care is limited, and you’re confined to a small space," Wagner said.

Dupont added that passengers may find it difficult to maintain hygiene or maintain safety when having to use the bathroom more frequently. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom.

The same goes for breathing problems. Wagner said airplane cabins are pressurized due to altitude, resulting in less oxygen. If you're already having difficulty breathing, the airplane environment can exacerbate the condition.

Neha Pathak, WebMD's chief physician editor for health and lifestyle, added that if you're short of breath at rest, have severe wheezing, or are experiencing a flare-up of asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), postpone your trip. "Planes are pressurized, oxygen levels are lower and breathing problems can get worse," she said.

If you experience chest pain, such as tightness, pressure, or pain, these can be signs of a life-threatening condition involving the heart and lungs. Furthermore, Dupont said, if accompanied by nausea, palpitations, or sweating, chest pain could be a heart attack. It's best not to risk experiencing a medical emergency in the middle of a flight. Flights.

Mild flu symptoms

Meanwhile, if you are experiencing mild flu symptoms, such as a runny or stuffy nose, a mild or moderate sore throat, but are otherwise feeling fine, it is still considered safe to fly. As long as you are not COVID-positive, and continue to wear a mask during the trip and wash your hands frequently.

To help reduce uncomfortable symptoms, you can take an oral decongestant before flying. However, always consult your doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions. During the flight, try to stay hydrated.

Meanwhile, seasonal allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and mild nasal congestion are fine for flying. "As long as there’s no fever and symptoms are controlled with your usual medications, flying is generally safe," Wagner said, noting that masks help reduce irritation from dry air and limit the potential spread of germs.

Other factors before flying

If you are still unsure whether to continue with a flight, Wagner suggests asking yourself: Will your condition worsen during the flight? Can you survive for several hours without access to medical care? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, No, it's better to postpone your flight. "Prioritizing your health and the health of those around you is always the smarter move," he said.

Imanda Zahwa contributed for this article.

Read: Why Flight Attendants Sit Upright During Takeoff and Landing

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