Travel Advisory

There are no recommendations against travel to a particular area or country on the basis of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 activity.

This general advice is intended for individuals, to limit their own personal risk and is not intended to limit the spread of H1N1 flu across national or international borders.

To reduce your risk of infection all travelers should:

• Talk to your travel health professional about whether flu may be a more serious disease for you. Pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions (such as diabetes, asthma, other lung diseases, heart disease, obesity) are at higher risk of severe infection.
• Consider a flu vaccination prior to departure, especially if you are in a higher risk group for severe infection.
• Consider your general health prior to travel. Your doctor may recommend you carry a course of antiviral medication, to be used in the event that you develop flu symptoms and are unable to get prompt medical attention.
• Maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands frequently. Carry a hand sanitizer for use when soap and water aren't readily available.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Avoid people who are obviously sick.
• Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date. This includes pneumocococcal vaccination for some groups of people. Your doctor will advise.

Other measures to consider, particularly when you are in an area where flu is circulating in the community:

• Avoid crowds as much as possible.
• If you cannot avoid crowds, consider wearing a face mask or respirator (if you are trained in how to use a respirator).
• Monitor your health, and seek medical attention if you become unwell.

To reduce the spread of flu:

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a mask or a tissue.
• Stay at home if you are unwell.
• Limit your contact with others as much as possible.
• Contact your health care provider if you or your children develop flu-like symptoms.
• If practical, before you arrive at the healthcare facility, advise them that you may have flu.