Can You Fly With Strep Throat: Everything You Need to Know

If you're planning to travel and have been diagnosed with strep throat, you may be wondering if it's safe to fly. Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils. It can cause symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. In this blog post, we'll explore whether it's advisable to fly with strep throat and provide you with essential information to help you make an informed decision.

Is it Safe to Fly with Strep Throat?

Flying with strep throat is generally not recommended. Strep throat is highly contagious and can easily spread to others in close quarters, such as an airplane cabin. Additionally, the changes in air pressure during a flight can worsen your symptoms and make you feel more uncomfortable.

Managing Strep Throat Symptoms

If you have strep throat and need to fly, it's essential to manage your symptoms effectively. Here are some tips:

Take prescribed antibiotics: Strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics to eliminate the infection. Make sure to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to soothe your throat and prevent dehydration.
Use throat lozenges or sprays: Over-the-counter throat lozenges or sprays can help relieve throat pain and irritation.
Rest and take care of yourself: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal and avoid strenuous activities that can worsen your symptoms.

Preventing the Spread of Strep Throat

To prevent the spread of strep throat to others, follow these guidelines:

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Wash your hands frequently: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
Avoid close contact with others: Try to maintain a distance of at least six feet from others to minimize the risk of spreading the infection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is generally not advisable to fly with strep throat due to the contagious nature of the infection and the potential discomfort caused by changes in air pressure. If you have strep throat, it's best to postpone your travel plans until you have fully recovered. However, if flying is unavoidable, make sure to manage your symptoms effectively and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infection. Remember, the best course of action is to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

Book an appointment with Statcare today and get the care you need to recover from strep throat!