Chickenpox and Flying: When Can You Travel Home?
Caught chickenpox on holiday and worried about your flight? Here is how long you are contagious, what airlines expect and how a fit to fly letter helps.
Chickenpox is contagious until all the blisters have crusted over, and airlines do not want infectious passengers in a cabin where other people, including babies and pregnant women, are sitting close together.
The Usual Rule
Most doctors and airlines advise waiting until every blister has scabbed over, which is usually about five to seven days after the rash begins. Some airlines will ask for a doctor’s letter confirming that you are no longer infectious, and some may refuse boarding to someone with an active rash.
Check with Your Airline
Rules vary, so contact the airline before the flight and tell them honestly what has happened. If you have travel insurance, call your insurer as well, because changing a flight or extending a hotel stay may be covered if a doctor documents the illness.
The Letter We Can Provide
After a video visit or an examination the doctor can document the diagnosis, the date the rash started and, once the blisters have dried up, confirm that you are no longer contagious and are fit to travel. The letter also supports an insurance claim for a changed flight or an extra hotel night.
While You Wait
Rest, drink plenty of water and keep away from anyone who has not had chickenpox, especially pregnant women, newborns and people with weak immunity. Stay in your room where possible and wash your hands often. If you have a fit to fly question, our Fit to Fly page explains the process.
References
- NHS. Chickenpox
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