Swine Flu Travel Information and Precautions
What to Do If Vacation Plans Include Affected Areas
Apr 29, 2009
On the verge of a swine flu pandemic, the information is flowing fast and furious.
As of today (April 29, 2009), here is what is confirmed and what to do if vacation plans include travel to or from Mexico or other affected areas.
Swine Flu Basics
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it is a new influenza virus of swine origin that has been traced to a possible source in Mexico. As most people will not have immunity to this virus, and neither a cause nor cure has been detected, yet, it is expected to spread, mainly via normal influenza means. This includes person-to-person contact and those in close airborne contact to those already infected.
As of the publication of this article, the World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the warning level to a Level 5 out of 6 for a swine flu pandemic. This means conditions are extremely serious and all precautions should be taken, but complete travel bans have not yet been issued.
But at the same time, it’s important to have the facts in hand and not let public hysteria blow details out of proportion.
What to Do About Current Travel Plans
If at all possible, cancel or change plans if they include travel to Mexico. As the outbreak was traced to this country, it is wise to avoid it all together until a definitive source and cure can be found. Trips to other locales do not need to be postponed at this time, but do keep current on any travel warnings via news outlets.
It’s also wise to consider postponing non-essential travel if one is in an at-risk category with low immunity, such as the elderly, infants, pregnant woman or if already ill.
As the situation is still developing, it’s definitely better to err on the side of caution with this illness.
What About Change Fees and Other Travel Concerns?
Many companies are waiving change fees for trips booked through them. Among those confirming via press statements or Twitter posts are Expedia, American, United, Continental, and US Airways. More are sure to follow. Dates and fine print differ per company, so check directly with them for those. If the company is not advertising they are waiving fees, ask anyway. Many may as a good will gesture.
When traveling through airports, allow extra time to get through the security screening areas as they will also now be looking for ill passengers, especially in terminals servicing flights to and from Mexico.
If plans include travel by ship, many cruises are already altering their itineraries to avoid stopping at Mexican ports of call. Carnival, Norwegian and Disney are among these. Check with the cruise lines directly for the latest information.
If travel insurance was purchased, it may cover any change or cancellation fees. Check the policy. If insurance wasn’t purchased for the trip, it’s too late now – many will not cover existing epidemics.
Practice Great Hygiene if Traveling
If one must travel, paying attention to hygiene basics, as with any other type of flu or viral outbreak, is the best way to avoid getting sick.
- Wash hands often, using an anti-bacterial soap.
- Use a hand sanitizer in between hand washings, making sure to cover both sides of the hand, including between fingers.
- Carry disposable disinfectant wipes to wipe down public surfaces such as airline trays, handrails and tables.
- Cover your face with a tissue if coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Avoid handshake or traditional kiss greetings.
- Open doors using elbows or covered hands.
- If spending time in public travel areas, consider wearing face masks and disposable gloves.
- Stay home if sick.
For More Information
Both WHO and the CDC are closely monitoring the outbreak and are posting relevant updates as needed. WHO is also Twittering @whonews.
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