Health and air travel
During a flight, cabin pressurization simulates an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters. For healthy individuals, this generally poses no risk.
If you have an upper respiratory tract infection, it is advisable to seek treatment before flying.
To reduce the risk of decompression-related complications, avoid traveling within 24 hours of scuba diving.
Medications on board
If you need to take medication during the flight, keep it in your hand luggage with the prescription specifying the exact name of each medication.
Medical syringes are permitted in the cabin upon presentation of a prescription and remain your responsibility. Never leave them on the plane : the cabin crew usually provides a specific container for their disposal.
Vaccinations
Some destinations require mandatory vaccinations for passengers and sometimes for animals. Some vaccines require multiple injections, so it's important to plan well in advance to ensure you're protected before departure.
For more information, you can contact thePasteur Institute at 03 20 87 78 00 or visit their website.
Diabetes
Before travelling, remember to check:
- The amount of insulin allowed in the cabin,
- The necessary medical certificates,
- Going through security with an insulin pump,
- General preparation for your journey.
The French Federation of Diabetics offers a comprehensive guide available on its website.
Pacemaker and implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
Traveling with a pacemaker or ICD is generally possible, but certain precautions are recommended to avoid electromagnetic interference.
Always keep your medical device card, which provides essential information in case of inspection or adjustment.
Security gates may trigger an alarm: present your card and opt for manual search to limit any risk to your device.
Prostheses and medical devices
Traveling with a prosthesis generally does not require any special precautions.
However, make sure you have insurance that includes medical repatriation and keep your surgeon's contact details and your medical file number.