Blog | Air ambulance | Repatriation from abroad (2024)

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Flying can be a thrilling adventure, but it can pose specific challenges for individuals with hepatitis. Whether you're jetting off for a holiday or traveling for work or medical purposes, it's critical to be aware of the risks linked with flying and how to travel securely with hepatitis. This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about flying with hepatitis, including tips for safe air travel and how to prepare for your trip.

Important things to know if you have to fly with hepatitis

• Traveling abroad with hepatitis is possible, but it depends on the severity of your condition and any associated health complications.
• Adhering to good hygiene practices and getting the necessary vaccine can help safeguard against hepatitis while traveling.
• Additionally, having the assistance of a commercial medical escort can make travel more manageable.
• In cases of advanced liver disease, air ambulance services may be preferred.

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a medical condition characterized by an inflammation of the liver caused by viruses, drugs, alcohol, or autoimmune diseases. There are various types of viral hepatitis, including A, B, C, D, and E, with each type having unique transmission routes and health implications. Hepatitis A and E are typically spread through contaminated food or water, while hepatitis B, C, and D are spread through contact with infected blood or body fluids, such as through sharing needles, having unprotected sex, or from mother to baby during childbirth. Hepatitis D only occurs in people who are already infected with hepatitis B. Autoimmune hepatitis, on the other hand, occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, leading to inflammation and damage.

How to protect yourself against hepatitis when traveling?

Getting ready for international travel involves protecting yourself, especially if you are traveling to countries where hepatitis is common. As part of your pre-travel checklist, it is important that you are up-to-date with the necessary vaccines. For instance, getting vaccinated is the most effective way to protect yourself against hepatitis A. Hepatitis A vaccine has been a routine childhood vaccine for years and is recommended for international travelers as from the age of 6 months. The Hepatitis B vaccine which is usually given to infants provides long-term immunization.

To protect yourself against hepatitis when traveling, it is important to follow good hygiene practices such as washing your hands regularly with soap and water, avoiding contact with potentially contaminated blood or body fluids, and getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B. You should also be careful when consuming food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation, and avoid sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes. If you have hepatitis, it is important to inform your travel companions and take necessary precautions to prevent transmission of the hepatitis virus.

What happens if you get hepatitis when holidaying abroad?

If you get hepatitis while traveling abroad, it is important to recognize the symptoms, which may vary depending on the type of hepatitis you have contracted. General symptoms among infected persons include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). If you suspect that you may have contracted hepatitis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. International travelers should visit a hospital or clinic to obtain emergency treatment and care. Treatment options will depend on the type of hepatitis and the severity of the infection but may include antiviral medications, rest, and lifestyle changes.

Can you fly with hepatitis?

In general, it is possible for people with hepatitis to fly safely, but it depends on the severity of their condition and any associated health complications. Mid-flight medical emergencies can occur for those with advanced liver disease, jaundice, or immune-active hepatitis, and include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, internal bleeding and liver failure, which can be potentially life-threatening.

A study published on PubMed found that aircrew with immune-active hepatitis may also experience side effects of antiviral treatment when flying due to changes in atmospheric pressure. However, the study suggests that with appropriate treatment, individuals with hepatitis can fly without any significant risk to themselves or others. It is important to note that while the study primarily focuses on aircrew, the findings can also apply to other individuals with hepatitis who plan to fly.

While many countries require that you are vaccinated against hepatitis, when it comes to commercial airlines’ regulations, there are actually no specific rules or restrictions for passengers with hepatitis. However, they may require hepatitis-infected passengers to provide medical clearance before boarding the flight. This clearance may be in the form of a medical certificate from a licensed healthcare provider stating that the passenger is fit to fly. It is recommended that passengers with hepatitis check with their airline regarding their policies and requirements before booking a flight. It is also important for passengers with hepatitis to disclose their condition to the airline and request any necessary accommodations or assistance to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

How long after a hepatitis infection can you fly?

There is no specific waiting period after a hepatitis infection before flying. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before traveling, especially if you have recently been diagnosed with hepatitis or have advanced liver disease. In some cases, travel may be restricted or postponed until the condition is under control or stabilized. The timing will depend on the individual's health status, the severity of the hepatitis, and any underlying complications.

Is a commercial medical escort applicable for flying after hepatitis?

Our Commercial medical escort service may be applicable for individuals with hepatitis who require medical assistance but need to fly. Through this service, we have a trained medical professional, such as a nurse or paramedic, accompany the individual during the flight and provide medical assistance as needed.

For travelers with hepatitis, our medical escort can provide several benefits. They can monitor the patient's condition throughout the flight and provide care if necessary, even during international travel. This can include administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and providing other necessary medical interventions. This is particularly important for patients with advanced liver disease or immune-active hepatitis who are at higher risk of complications mid-flight. Additionally, our medical escort can provide peace of mind to patients with hepatitis who are traveling by air, knowing that they have access to medical assistance and monitoring throughout their journey.

However, it is important to note that this service may not be feasible for all patients, especially for those with severe symptoms.

Why is it recommended to use an air ambulance for medical repatriation in cases of severe hepatitis symptoms?

Medical repatriation in an air ambulance can be a safe and efficient way for individuals with severe hepatitis symptoms and other health complications, such as liver cirrhosis, liver cancer or liver failure, to travel back to their home country.

One of the main benefits of our air ambulance service is that it allows patients to receive continuous specialized medical care and attention during the flight, which can be particularly important for those with advanced liver disease. Our air ambulances are equipped with sophisticated medical devices and are staffed with trained medical professionals who can monitor the patient's condition and provide any necessary treatments or medications during the flight.

In addition to the medical care, our air ambulances also offer a more comfortable and controlled environment to hepatitis-infected patients compared to commercial flights. This can be especially important for those who may be more sensitive to the effects of changes in air pressure, temperature, and humidity. Our air ambulances can also accommodate any special needs or equipment that the patient may require, such as oxygen tanks or dialysis machines. Finally, medical repatriation in an air ambulance can also provide peace of mind to patients and their families. Knowing that the patient is receiving the best possible care and attention during the flight can help alleviate any anxiety or stress associated with traveling with hepatitis.

Contact us to book an air ambulance to fly safely with hepatitis!

Don't let hepatitis stand in the way of your travel plans. Book an air ambulance with us and get access to medical professionals who will ensure your safe and comfortable transportation. With our experienced crew and state-of-the-art equipment, you can be confident that you'll receive the highest level of care during your journey. Contact us today to learn more and take the first step towards a worry-free travel experience.