No Significant Effect of Mild Urinary Tract Infection-Like Symptoms on Psychomotor Vigilance

Aircrew reluctance to urinate during flights, coupled with the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), represents an under-explored occupational health issue. The effects of UTIs on aviation-relevant tasks are not well understood; however, they may lead to disruptions and distractions, potentially affecting aviators' flight safety.

This observational study sought to investigate whether UTI-like symptoms impair psychomotor vigilance. A total of 38 healthy female subjects (N = 18 symptom group; N = 20 no symptom group) completed questionnaires and a 10-min Psychomotor Vigilance Task. Stepwise linear regression models (i.e., Model 1, primary symptoms; and Model 2, secondary symptoms) assessed whether symptom presence predicted reaction time, minor lapses, or major lapses. Additionally, independent t-tests were conducted on symptom severity/discomfort and performance to compare between groups.

Models 1 and 2 for the linear regression did not have a statistically significant explained variance; therefore, the models were a poor fit. The factors predicting psychomotor vigilance performance cannot be interpreted. Further, there were no significant differences in psychomotor vigilance metrics between the symptom and no symptom groups.

This study found no measurable impact of UTI-like symptoms on vigilance within the tested sample. However, UTIs remain a pertinent aeromedical concern affecting flight status and operational readiness. Proactive preventive medicine strategies, such as screening for a history of UTIs, are essential to reduce UTI incidence. While mild UTI symptoms may, under close clinical supervision, permit flight, prioritizing aircrew health and safety remain paramount. Borden C, Vento KA. No significant effect of mild urinary tract infection-like symptoms on psychomotor vigilance. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2026; 97(4):284-288.