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Swine Flu Travel Advice
by Holiday Rental Centre Team
September 2009
Swine Flu Travel Advice
The current influenza pandemic – now known around the world as Swine Flu, is the respiratory illness caused by ‘A flu’ virus and named as Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 by the World Health Organization.
The spreading of this new virus is deemed to occur in the similar manner as seasonal flu. Effective treatment of the infection is via antiviral medication. Most reported cases in the UK have been mild and many people have recovered fully after treatment, although a number of deaths which have occurred some of them may be as a result of ‘other underlying health issues’.
The following authorities have issued lots of guidance notes, a number of suggestions and / or key information on their websites for those who may have contracted Swine Flu or who are considering travelling abroad and require up-to-date advice.
Careful study of this advice is recommended for all those people intending to travel.
The Health Protection Agency http://www.hpa.org.uk
The Department of Health http://www.dh.gov.uk/swineflu
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office http://www.fco.gov.uk/swine-flu
Whether travelling or not, all people, including sufferers and their carers, are advised to study the latest information displayed on each website and, where appropriate, follow the advice and guidance given before contacting their own doctor or health professional.
Commonsense plays a major role in the control and spread of Swine Flu, so it is important for everyone to understand how to minimize the risk for themselves and others, whilst at the same time confining their own sufferings or symptoms in order to avoid further contaminating others that may include colleagues, friends or family.
Preparing to Travel
1. If you think you may or know you have Swine Flu, then you should not travel until all signs have disappeared.
2. Check to see if your intended destination has indentified cases of Swine Flu and what if any restrictions are in force.
3. Purchase plenty of ‘alcohol-based’ waterless hand gel and use it regularly.
4. Assess All the risks and requirements involved if you intend to travel, such as:
a) Is it really necessary to visit a swine-flu affected region?
b) Are you likely to get Swine Flu at your destination?
c) What medical treatment or care is available for you?
d) Can you obtain anti-viral medications to treat for any influenza-style illness? (This includes a fever plus 2 or more of either: a cough, a sore throat, a runny nose, aching muscle or a headache).
e) Can you obtain the appropriate vaccines or other necessary preventive measures before your departure?
f) Does your Travel Health Insurance show any ‘exclusions’ regarding travelling to your chosen destination?
g) Check the policy small print thoroughly, especially for Cancellations due to Swine Flu.
Holiday or Business Travel
Swine-Flu and Influenza germs are generally absorbed and transmitted through coughs and sneezes. All travellers must be aware and take sensible hygiene and other precautions, which include:
1. Follow public health advice or guidance upon your arrival.
2. Try to avoid crowded places or areas with large groups.
3 Avoid close contact with people who are known or you suspect to have flu-symptoms or sickness.
4. Wash your hands regularly with soap and hot-water and / or alcohol-based hand gel if that is all that is available.
5. To prevent spreading germs, avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
6. When you cough or sneeze – use large tissues to cover your mouth and nose then dispose of the tissue immediately.
7. Check that any children also follow this advice.
8. The wearing of masks is not essential but may be helpful in hospitals, clinics or surgeries.
9. If you become unwell with flu-like symptoms while you are abroad, get medical help immediately.
10. Where possible contact the nearest British Embassy or Consulate Official http://www.fco.gov.uk who will provide assistance for British nationals which includes details of English-speaking doctors or nurses for treatment and the supply of any anti-viral drugs required.
On your return
Travellers returning from Swine-flu affected regions should continue their health precautions for at least 1 week. Should you be affected with flu-like symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache or muscle aches, within a week you should re-visit http://www.direct.gov.uk or your local healthcare Helpline.
It is also advisable to avoid close contact with others and continue with all good practice hand-washing and personal hygiene procedures that have been recommended.
Further Swine Information is available by telephoning: 0800 1 513 513