Can a patient with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) who is being treated fly?

Air Travel for Patients with MRSA Under Treatment

Patients with MRSA who are receiving effective treatment can fly, provided they are not considered infectious and their wounds (if present) are properly covered with clean, dry bandages. 1, 2

Key Considerations for MRSA Patients Planning Air Travel

Infectiousness Assessment

• Non-infectious status: Patients should only fly when they are considered non-infectious, similar to tuberculosis guidelines which require effective treatment before allowing air travel 1
• Treatment duration: Ensure the patient has received adequate antibiotic therapy based on culture sensitivity results 1
• Wound status: Any draining wounds must be completely covered with clean, dry bandages 1

Timing of Travel

• If the MRSA infection caused a significant respiratory illness requiring hospitalization, wait at least 6 weeks after hospital discharge before flying 1, 2
• For patients with minor MRSA skin infections (like small abscesses) that have been adequately treated, flying is generally safe once:
  • Drainage procedures have been completed
  • Appropriate antibiotic therapy has been initiated
  • Wounds are properly covered 1

Pre-Flight Precautions

1. Wound care:

   • Ensure all wounds are properly cleaned and covered with occlusive dressings 1
   • Pack extra dressings in carry-on luggage for long flights
   • Consider waterproof dressings for longer flights

2. Medication management:

   • Carry all antibiotics in carry-on luggage 1
   • For long flights, ensure timing of doses is adjusted appropriately
   • Check with pharmacist whether any medications may be affected by temperature changes in baggage compartments 1

During Flight Precautions

• Maintain good hand hygiene using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers 1
• Avoid touching face, especially eyes, nose, and mouth
• Limit movement if wounds are extensive or in areas that might be exposed during movement

Special Considerations

For Severe or Complicated MRSA Infections

• Patients with systemic illness, extensive disease, or immunosuppression should consider delaying travel until their condition has significantly improved 1
• Those with MRSA pneumonia should follow respiratory infection guidelines and delay travel for at least 6 weeks after hospital discharge 1, 2

For MRSA Carriers Without Active Infection

• Individuals who are colonized with MRSA but have no active infection can fly without restrictions 3
• Maintaining good personal hygiene is still recommended

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Inadequate wound coverage: Improper dressing of wounds increases risk of transmission and complications
• Premature travel: Flying too soon after hospitalization for severe MRSA infection
• Medication interruption: Failing to maintain antibiotic schedule during travel
• Neglecting hand hygiene: Critical for preventing spread of MRSA to others and reinfection

By following these guidelines, patients with MRSA under treatment can safely travel by air while minimizing risks to themselves and others.