While their child had a high fever, Alina and her husband maintained their flight to Thailand. A controversial decision, which Dr. Gérald Kierzek formally advises against in some cases. Here is what to remember before traveling with a sick child.
“”All the money invested would have been wasted“”
While most young parents would have naturally gave up their trip, this American family decided to be a player … and optimistic. Indeed, while their one -year -old baby had a high fever a few hours before their flight (almost 40 degrees), they decided to embark.
“Our tickets would have become useless and all the money invested would have been wasted”explains the young mother on Tiktok, who confides having saved for this “8 -hour flight“To Thailand.
The couple also tries to reassure themselves, by all means. According to them, the child’s fever would seem to have “slightly lowered“Shortly before boarding. Except that the flight was much more complicated than expected.”Our baby was just crying and wakeing up“She says in the video.
A decision that aroused strong criticism from Internet users.
Take the plane with a sick child: a strongly criticized choice
“My child’s health comes first of all travel or sum of money!”protests a surfer.
Other users have underlined the risks involved by the baby, including respiratory complications. “Traveling with a sick baby is not only dangerous for him, but also disrespectful towards other passengers”another was outraged.
Faced with these remarks, Alina tried to justify herself. “”Our baby was not sick; He was just doing his teeth “she said. A version that did not seem to convince many of his followers.
In what case can we take a sick child on the plane?
Traveling with a feverish child is not recommended, but possible under certain conditions according to Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor:
- Moderate fever (less than 38.5 ° C) and without other serious symptoms (breathing difficulties, contagious infection …).
- Medical opinion: “A doctor/pediatrician must confirm that the trip is not likely to worsen the state of the child”;
- Precautions: “It is necessary to take on the plane different medications (antipyretics, hydration), to avoid dehydration, and to prevent the airline”.
Conversely, some contraindications should prevent you from traveling:
- Acute otitis (intense pain due to pressure variations);
- Contagious infection (flu, bronchiolitis, chickenpox);
- Respiratory distress (increased risk in a pressurized cabin).
“”Of course, make sure that fever is not linked to a serious problem such as meningitis or peritonitis“, Advises Dr Gérald Kierzek.
When does the child’s temperature become critical?
“Beyond 38.5 ° C, your child risks significant discomfort, with a possible risk of complications, such as feverish convulsions in certain babies. And beyond 39 ° C, this is an emergency in flight, due to the risk of dehydration and aggravation of the state of health”, warns the medical director of True Medical.
Other essential information to know:
- “Pressure in the cabin can accentuate certain symptoms, including ear ailments and headache”, reveals the medical expert;
- “Airlines are entitled to refuse boarding if the child seems too sick, in accordance with the IATA regulations”, specifies the emergency doctor.
In summary, postpone the flight, if possible, and consult a doctor before making a decision. “The child’s health takes precedence over any trip! And have insurance (optional or bank card) play”, concludes Dr Gérald Kierzek.