Disability and medication reminders

All travelers are required to undergo screening at the TSA checkpoint(s). Here are some helpful reminders to assure the process goes as smoothly as possible- especially during busy travel times. 

Have your TSA notification card or other medical documentation available for the officer at the checkpoint.

Please complete the Request for TSA Cares Assistance form if you require assistance during the screening process. 

Have your TSA PreCheck® designation verified at a participating airport. Once completed, you will not be required to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, or light jackets during the screening process. At any time, however, you can be subject to a pat-down, and asked to remove items such as shoes, belts, or light jackets. In addition, TSA may swab your hands, mobility aids, equipment, and other external medical devices to test for explosives. 

If, for example, the TSA PreCheck® lane is closed, the disabled traveler(s) will receive on-person screening in the standard lane. All items such as laptops, liquids, and CPAP/BPAP equipment, will also be screened if the traveler is moved to the standard lane for any reason. 

See disabilities and medical conditions for all necessary information before traveling with any airline. 

Medications

All medications must undergo visual or x-ray security screening. They may also be tested for traces of explosives. TSA recommends all medication be clearly labeled to facilitate the screening process and to check with state laws regarding medication labels. 

Any accessories associated with your medication should also be labeled and separated from other belongings before screening.

Large amounts of medically necessary liquids, aerosols, etc., must be declared to the TSA officers at the checkpoint. They are not required to be in a plastic zip-top bag. All items are subject to additional screening and may not be allowed. 

These items must meet the following requirements:

1. Required during your flight and/or at your travel destination
2. Not available at the airport in the sterile area (after the screening checkpoint) 
3. Not available at your travel destination
4. For examples of medically necessary and unnecessary items please see disabilities and medical conditions 

Screening

TSA officers may test liquids, gels, or aerosols for explosives or concealed prohibited items. If officers are unable to use an X-ray to clear these items, they may ask to open the container and transfer the content to a separate empty container or dispose of a small quantity of the content, if feasible.

Inform the TSA officer if you do not want your liquid medication to be screened by X-ray or opened. Additional steps will be taken to clear the liquid and you will undergo additional screening procedures including a pat-down and screening of other carry-on property.

CDC travel recommendations

COVID-19

The CDC is recommending all domestic, international, and cruise ship travelers visit travel assessment – COVID-19 before traveling. 

RSV

RSV is common worldwide, but no additional precautions are needed when traveling. RSV generally peaks between November and April so wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. See RSV-CDC recommendations for more information. 

Flu

The flu season typically begins in October and lasts as late as May in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, it typically occurs from April to September. In the tropics, it occurs throughout the year. People are also subjected when traveling in large groups, aboard cruise ships, and anywhere that includes people traveling from areas where the virus is circulating. Because of this, the CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine yearly. See influenza prevention: information for travelers for more information.