HomeAnswersGeneral Surgerypost surgical infectionCan a person travel with an infected surgical site?

I have a surgical site infection. Can I travel?

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Published At April 20, 2016
Reviewed AtMay 23, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Two and a half weeks ago, I underwent an exploratory laparotomy that resulted in an appendectomy. Yesterday, I went to see my primary care physician who diagnosed a surgical site infection. I was given Cephalexin three times per day for ten days. My question is about traveling in my current condition. In a few days, I am scheduled to high school students on a four day trip. We are traveling by charter bus, which will take eight hours. There will be considerable walking. Due to my current condition, would you recommend me to attend this trip? Do you think it will not cause more harm and be reasonably safe? Your response is greatly appreciated.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It would be very difficult for me to recommend anything without a clinical examination. The extent of wound infection would determine whether you could go or not. A mild infection which does not require a daily dressing will not hinder you from going. But if the infection is deeper and discharging pus, then it would not be advisable to go on such a trip. Kindly consult your surgeon as he would be the best person to guide you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Nadiminty Raghuvamsi
Dr. Nadiminty Raghuvamsi

Surgical Oncology

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