Intractable airsickness associated with COVID-19: A case report

Area of Science:

• Aerospace Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Neurology

Background:

• A helicopter co-pilot with extensive flight experience in COVID-19 patient transport developed symptoms post-infection.
• The pilot experienced significant nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and imbalance upon returning to flight duties.
• These symptoms led to avoidance of flying and were not present before or during his aviation training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first case of intractable airsickness in a flight crew member potentially associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To investigate the link between COVID-19 and the development of severe, persistent airsickness in aviators.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive assessment was conducted to rule out other potential causes of the pilot's symptoms.
• The patient was diagnosed with moderate airsickness and underwent various prevention and rehabilitation techniques.
• The United States Air Force Preventive Airsickness Protocol was applied as a final therapeutic option over three consecutive courses.

Main Results:

• Despite multiple treatment attempts, including the USAF protocol, the pilot showed no significant clinical improvement.
• The patient remained unable to return to flying duties due to persistent and severe airsickness symptoms.
• No predisposing factors for airsickness were identified prior to the SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusions:

• This case suggests a potential association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the development of intractable airsickness in flight crew.
• The findings underscore the need for further research into the neurological and vestibular effects of COVID-19 on aviators.
• Persistent airsickness following COVID-19 infection can have significant implications for aviation safety and crew health.