What countries have been affected by the Avian Flu?
The H5N1 ("bird flu") virus has been confirmed in poultry
and other birds in Cambodia, China, Croatia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan,
Mongolia, Romania, Russia, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam, Malaysia and
Laos.
Should I avoid travelling to these countries?
At present, the CDC and WHO are not recommending limit of travel
to countries where cases of bird flu have been reported. However,
it is advised that travellers be alert and take certain precautions:
How is Avian flu transmitted?
Currently nearly all reported bird flu cases have been acquired
by direct contact with infected birds. There has been at least
one confirmed report of the h5n1 virus spread between people
who have been in close contact (from a mother to child), however
bird flu is still classified as a level 3 pandemic risk (no
person-to-person transmission or very rare instances resulting
from close contact).
What are the symptoms of bird flu in humans?
Symptoms of h5n1 (avian flu) infection in people include fever
with a cough, sore throat, or trouble breathing
How can I protect myself from Avian Flu?
- Wash your hands frequently and completely
using soap and water. Waterless, alcohol-based
hand gels can be substituted if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid contact any direct contact with poultry,
including live or dead chickens and ducks, raw poultry products,
poultry feces. Avoid places where poultry is raised or sold, such
as chicken farms and bird markets.
- Don't eat any poultry products (including eggs) unless
they are thoroughly cooked.
- If you become ill with any of the bird flu
symptoms listed
above, seek medical attention promptly. The US consular office
can assist you in finding medical help and notifying your family.
What other precautions should I take?
- Pack a basic first aid kit including a thermometer and sanitizing
hand-gel.
- Before departure, compile and pack a list of health resources
in the countries to which you will be travelling.
- Check that your health insurance covers medical evacuation in
the event you become ill.
Should I pack N95 protective "flu" masks?
Surgical masks are not considered necessary at this time except
for health care workers and for others who will be coming in
contact with a person who has or is suspected to have the Avian
flu. Avoiding high-risk environments and proper hand hygeine
are currently considered sufficient for the average traveller.
See the resources at the bottom of this page for the latest
bird flu news and recommendations.
What if I get sick after I return from my trip?
If you develop any symptoms of avian flu within 10 days of your
return, seek medical attention immediately. Do not travel and
avoid contact with others while you are ill. Be sure to tell
your doctor your symptoms, where you were travelling, and whether
or not you were in direct contact with birds, poultry, raw poultry
products or any person who may have been severely ill.
Where can I get more information about Avian Flu?
Additional information about bird flu, including updated travel
alerts and warnings, can be found at:
http://www.cdc.gov/travel/other/avian_influenza_se_asia_2005.htm
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/en/
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