Don't kiss pigs

We're all aware of the dangers this new influenza presents but we don't think it should be the end of international travel, here are a few travel tips to help you along....

Don’t kiss pigs

The big picture

 

We’re sure it’s not something any of you would ever do, but just in case it’s really not a good idea! By now if you haven’t heard about the swine flu pandemic then you must be living on another planet! For those of you who aren’t sure exactly what’s going on; swine flu is a new strain of flu, which is passed from pigs to humans. The origins of this particular strain of flu are believed to be in Mexico but have since spread to 24 countries worldwide, this has caused the WHO (World Health Organisation) to class the flu as a phase 5 global pandemic.

 

Though the spread of swine flu is very serious it is important to keep the facts and figures in perspective. There have been deaths from the virus; a current total of 44 (42 in Mexico and 2 in the US), but with 1, 900 suspected cases worldwide unpacking your suitcase and barricading yourself in your room isn’t necessarily the answer.

 

The FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) has advised against all but essential travel to Mexico, which we agree really does make a lot of sense all things considered, however, no advice has been issued against worldwide travel. We’re as against the spread of disease on an international scale as anyone, but personally we feel that this shouldn’t stop globe trotters and explorers from setting off into the great beyond. With more than 600 suspected cases in the US, 91 suspected cases in Australia and 27 confirmed cases in the UK, avoiding travel to Costa Rica where there is only 1 confirmed case so far, might seem a bit far fetched.

 

It is important of course to be careful; avoiding flights transiting through Mexico and staying away from that general area is probably a good idea, but never stepping on a plane again isn’t a fail safe way to stop the spread of disease. The best thing to do is just be sensible on your travels; be aware of your own health and if you do start to feel unwell then make sure you get checked out, whether overseas or on the return home. Some countries such as Peru are already doing checks on people flying into the country from US/Mexico to prevent the spread of the virus so you’ll be extra safe before you get there.

 

A bit of advice (the serious bit)

If you are looking for advice on how swine flu might affect your travel plans, you should consult the travel advice or the country concerned.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is coordinating the global response to human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) and monitoring the corresponding threat of an influenza pandemic. Up to date advice and information on the current situation can be found on the WHO website.

If you are travelling to an affected country you should:

• consult your usual healthcare provider for travel medical advice and further guidance if you have specific concerns
• check our travel advice for the relevant country before travelling.

The Department of Health website gives further information on what the UK is doing in response to the outbreak.  The Health Protection Agency has provided advice on measures which can be taken to prevent infection.  General infection control practices and good respiratory hand hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including the human swine influenza. This includes:

• covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible
• disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully
• maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people
• cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product
• making sure your children follow this advice.

How the FCO can help

The FCO are working closely with the Department of Health and other areas of HM Government. As far as possible, they will continue to deliver a consular service for British nationals resident or travelling overseas through their network of embassies, although there may be limited services in some places affected by swine flu, depending on the scale and severity of the outbreak.  If there is any change to the level of service they can provide, this will be reflected in the travel advicefor that country.

British nationals overseas

If you live in a country affected by swine flu, you should monitor the FCO’S travel advice and, as with other medical matters, assure yourself of your own healthcare arrangements.  This might include obtaining access to anti-viral medicine.  If you have any concerns over your own health, you should seek medical advice.

British nationals working overseas should speak to their employers about plans they have in place.  Such plans may include access to anti-viral treatment for employees and/or repatriation to the UK.

Many countries may have limited availability of anti-viral drugs.  Our embassy staff may be able to provide advice on the availability of local medicines or healthcare, but we cannot provide medical treatment (including anti-viral medication).

 

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