Avian Influenza Information for travelers

Avian Influenza Information for travelers If a pandemic bird theres no doubt that having a devastating effect on the travel industry. The paper touches briefly on avian influenza and provides suggestions for the traveler will be ultimately more susceptible if a pandemic strikes. What is avian influenza? Avian influenza is a strain of influenza that affects birds almost twenty. While there is a mass hysteria in the media on recent outbreaks of avian influenza is known of the existence of more than 40 years. During this time, the disease has become more infectious and affects nearly all species of birds in many countries around the world. A strain of the disease which is of particular conce is the deadly H5N1 strain - which has claimed more than sixty people have died so far. Although these deaths were caused by direct contact with infected birds, but scientists fear the virus could mutate and become highly contagious among humans. I have to defer travel to countries that have confirmed cases of avian influenza? No. At this time, avian influenza is a relatively isolated. You can only become infected through secretions from infected birds. You have a greater probability of aggression or become sick with the common cold - so put everything in perspective. In saying this, remain cautious. Make sure you understand the potential outbreaks that could occur. If you hear of a suspected outbreak, but could reconsider. Govements also provide the minutes of the travel waings countries with outbreaks of disease. See: The potential risk of flying. If there is an outbreak, be very wary of flying. Planes provide a perfect environment for spreading disease. Passengers are often by plane and balloon animals. Because they are closed for long periods and with the air that is re-distributed to increase dramatically the changes of infection. And what happens if an infected passenger on a previous flight, was sitting on the seat you are sitting on about?. The news is not all bad. Many new commercial aircraft are filters that eliminate all the germs from the air. Remember to check with your airline. When the SARS virus was first discovered in China, reached only five other countries, in 24 hours. High-speed today, the airline is scary scenario. The pandemic of 1918 spread around the world - despite the travel times were significant differences between countries. To travel around the world in 24 hours - imagine how quickly an avian virus could spread. How do I prepare before traveling? - Prepare an emergency kit. If possible, include a disinfectant and thermometer. A dose of flu, such as tablets of Tamiflu and a respirator would be a good addition. - Vaccinate. Make sure you have all the joints is recommended before traveling. It is believed that the common flu vaccine in May to provide a degree of resistance, but it is not known until scientists can determine how the mutation of the virus. - View the news and study. Make sure it is updated before you leave. Be sure to take a small radio with you so you can keep up, while on the go. - Take out travel insurance. What happens if I am caught in an explosion? - If you can not leave the area, you should avoid close contact with other people without any symptoms. It is recommended to cover mouth and nose with a respirator. Do not cover your mouth and nose with your hands - in fact avoid such contact. Remember to wash your hands (and that others will not too) regularly. What happens if I get infected? If you start to show symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat), be sure to contact the consular officer immediately. They can advise on where to seek medical attention. There are anti-viral tablets (such as Tamiflu), which may offer some relief. Visit this URL for more information: / influenza / protect / antiviral / index.htm Also, be sure to isolate from others. If you do not want to be infected. If you are traveling in countries that have confirmed cases of avian sure to monitor their health for a maximum of ten days after his retu. If symptoms occur, be sure to see your health professional immediately. Please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site for official information and the influenza / avian / TravelJ assumes no responsibility for the information contained within this article, and can not be held responsible and any direct or indirect that may occur a result. The article is Copyright 2005 - TravelJ - Passengers Resources and Information Network