Traveling to High Altitudes with Infants

Introduction to High-Altitude Travel

The American Thoracic Society confirms that for most patients without severe cardiopulmonary diseases, traveling to 8000 feet (approximately 2438 meters) is generally safe 1

Children with chronic lung disease of childhood or bronchopulmonary dysplasia should not travel to high altitude without detailed medical evaluation and possible supplemental oxygen 3, 4, 2
Children with congenital heart defects with shunt (atrial septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonary vein stenosis) should not travel to high altitude without medical evaluation 2
Children with Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) should not travel to high altitude without medical evaluation 2
Children with acute viral infections or active respiratory diseases should not travel to high altitude without medical evaluation 2

For a healthy 9-month-old child, gradual ascent is preferable if possible, although at 2000 meters the risk is minimal 2
Adequate hydration is essential for children traveling to high altitudes 5
Avoid intense physical effort in the first 24-48 hours after arrival at high altitude 2

Parents should immediately descend to a lower altitude and seek medical assistance if the child exhibits difficulty breathing or persistent rapid breathing 2
Parents should immediately descend to a lower altitude and seek medical assistance if the child exhibits severe lethargy or altered mental status 2

If a child has a history of prematurity, chronic lung disease, or requires supplemental oxygen at home, a pre-travel medical evaluation is necessary 3, 4
These children may require adjustment of oxygen flow for altitude using the formula: FiO2 (BP – 47) [sea level] = FiO2 (BP – 47) [altitude], where BP is barometric pressure 3, 4