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Important Information About the Swine Flu (H1N1)
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released the following report on May 13, 2009: Due to the outbreak of novel H1N1 flu occurring in the United States and many other countries, airport staff in some countries may check the health of arriving passengers. Many countries, including Japan and China, are screening arriving passengers for illness due to novel H1N1 flu. These health screenings are being used to prevent the spread of novel H1N1 flu. If you are sick with symptoms of influenza-like illness you should not travel. These symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Travelers should be aware that since the novel H1N1 flu outbreak is occurring in the United States, flights from the United States arriving in other countries may be specifically targeted for screening. United States travelers may be checked for fever and other symptoms of novel H1N1 flu and their travel may be delayed. If you travel internationally from the United States, you may be asked to:
http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/news-announcements/ delays-H1N1-screening.aspx (Centers for Disease Control) http://www.who.int/en/ (World Health Organization) http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1766.html (State Department Travel Alert) http://www6.miami.edu/UMH/CDA/UMH_Main/1,1770,66286-1,00.html (UM Student Health Center) http://www.nafsa.org/regulatory_information.sec/ emergency_situation_resource (International Educators website) Country Specific Information on H1N1 Argentina: The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Argentina of the health risks associated with the World Health Organization (WHO)-declared 2009-H1N1 influenza pandemic, which has resulted in illness in numerous countries. The current outbreak in Argentina has caused federal, provincial, and municipal authorities to announce several measures to prevent the illness from spreading. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that Americans at high risk for complications of influenza and considering travel to areas affected by 2009-H1N1 influenza, such as Argentina, discuss their travel plans with their doctor. Together, they should look carefully at the 2009-H1N1 flu situation at their destination including available health-care options in the area. They should discuss their specific health situations and possible increased risk of traveling to the area affected by 2009-H1N1 flu. This Travel Alert expires on September 14, 2009. The Government of Argentina has announced a US$263 million effort to take action against the influenza outbreak. All of Argentina?s 23 districts and the city of Buenos Aires have extended school vacations, some by as long as a month. Twelve of Argentina?s districts, including the Province of Buenos Aires and the city of Buenos Aires, have declared administrative health emergencies. Throughout the country, authorities advise against attending events involving large gatherings of people. The media is issuing public health advice on a continuing basis. The federal government is updating measures on a daily basis and has not ruled out more restrictive actions. As of July 6, the Ministry of Health had reported 2,485 confirmed cases of 2009-H1N1, including 60 deaths. These figures are updated daily. Currently, there is insufficient international scientific data about the course of the pandemic to determine the highest risk groups for complications of novel influenza A (2009-H1N1) virus infection. According to medical authorities, the same age and risk groups who are at higher risk for seasonal influenza complications should also be considered at higher risk for 2009-H1N1 influenza complications. Groups at higher risk for seasonal influenza complications include: Children less than 5 years old; Persons aged 65 years or older; Children and adolescents (less than 18 years) who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy and who might be at risk for experiencing Reye's Syndrome after influenza virus infection; Pregnant women; Adults and children who have chronic pulmonary, cardiovascular, hepatic, hematological, neurologic, neuromuscular, or metabolic disorders; Adults and children who have immunosuppression (including immunosuppression caused by medications or by HIV); Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities. Not all respiratory illnesses are 2009-H1N1 influenza, but may be seasonal influenza or another illness. Specific questions or concerns about influenza or specific high-risk conditions should be directed to a medical professional. For additional information please consult the Department of State information on 2009-H1N1 Flu, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Website or the World Health Organization Website for information on how to avoid contracting the virus and how to treat it if infected. U.S. citizens also may call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the U.S. for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 am ? 8:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time, M-F, at 1-888-407-4747, or if calling from outside the U.S., at (202)-501-4444. For any emergencies involving American citizens, please contact the American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit of the U.S. Embassy?s Consular Section, located at 4300 Avenida Colombia, 1425 Buenos Aires; telephone+54-11-5777-4354; after hours emergency telephone +54-11-5777-4873; ACS unit fax +54-11-5777-4293; e-mail BuenosAires-ACS@state.gov ; web page. Americans living or traveling in Argentina are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website, so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Argentina. Americans without internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy. Australia: This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of H1N1 Influenza A, formerly known as swine flu. The Australian Department of Health and Aging has not yet confirmed any cases of H1N1 Influenza in Australia. The Australian government has listed H1N1 Influenza A as a quarantinable disease in humans under the Quarantine Act 1908. Australian authorities have the power to take appropriate actions in an emergency to prevent or control the spread of a disease. Health screening measures are in place at airports throughout Australia. Upon arrival in Australia, passengers may be assessed for flu-like symptoms. Passengers may also be subject to further screening measures, such as testing, monitoring, and/or referral for possible quarantine. Official Australian government information is available online at: http://www.healthemergency.gov.au/internet/healthemergency/ publishing.nsf. The Australian government has also established a telephone hotline for H1N1 influenza information at 1 802 007. For further information about H1N1 flu, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State website at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website at: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu, and the World Health Organization website at: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. For additional travel safety information, please consult the State Department's website at http://travel.state.gov. U.S. citizens may also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the United States for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling (202) 501-4444 from other countries. Americans living or traveling in Australia are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Australia. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Consulate General Sydney is located at Level 59, MLC Centre 19-29 Martin Place, Sydney, NSW 2000, telephone number 02-9373-9200, emergency after hours number is 02-4422-2201, fax 02-9373-9184, email is SydneyACS@state.gov, website http://sydney.usconsulate.gov http://canberra.usembassy.gov/consular/H1N1flu.pdf Austria: The Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of H1N1 Influenza A, formerly known as swine flu. The Austrian government has reported one confirmed case. The Ministry of Health and Family maintains up-to-date information on their website at www.bmgjf.gv.at. Alternately, there is a hotline available daily from 7 am - 8 pm by calling 050 555 555. http://vienna.usembassy.gov/en/embassy/cons/warden.htm Brazil: This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza, sometimes referred to as swine flu. The Brazilian Ministry of Health reported yesterday evening (May 7) four confirmed cases of H1N1: two in Sao Paulo; one in Rio de Janeiro; and one in Minas Gerais. They are all Brazilian young adults and are in stable condition. Three arrived from Mexico and one from the United States (Florida). All contracted H1N1 while they were abroad, before landing in Brazil. On May 7, the Brazilian authorities received diagnostic kits from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) that enabled them to test cases. Ninety-three individuals who were being monitored and were suspected of having H1N1, tested negative. Fifteen specimens are still being analyzed and the results should be released today. The Ministry of Health stated that it is continuing with previously implemented procedures for monitoring cases. The Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) continues to monitor international flights arriving in Brazil. All passengers arriving at the international airport in Rio who are suspected of having H1N1 symptoms will be evaluated by a medical team at the airport. Airline crews have been asked to inform passengers about H1N1 symptoms during flight and ask passengers who suspect they may have these symptoms to identify themselves before landing in Brazil. If necessary, sick travelers may be sent to one of three public hospitals in Rio prepared to receive H1N1 cases. The airports are also distributing flyers about H1N1 in English, Portuguese, and Spanish to travelers arriving from countries with confirmed H1N1 cases. If you are admitted to a hospital for observation, please contact the U.S. Consulate General immediately. The Rio de Janeiro Health Secretariat has indicated the three public hospitals mentioned below as "hospitals of reference," which are equipped to treat H1N1 flu cases. These hospitals are: Hospital Pedro Ernesto at Rua 28 de Setembro 77 in Vila Isabel, Instituto de Pesquisa Clinica Evandro Chagas at Avenida Brasil 4365 in Manguinhos, and Instituto Estadual de Infectologia/Iaserj at Avenida Henrique Valadares, 107 in Centro. In neighboring states they are: Hospital das Clinicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av Prof Alfredo Balena, 110 in Belo Horizonte, Hospital de Urgencia de Sergipe Governador Joao Alves Filho, Av. Tangredo Neves s/n, Aracaju in Sergipe, Hospital Otavio Mangabeira, Praca Conselheiro Joao Alfredo, s/n, Bairro Pau Miudo, Salvador in Bahia, and Vitoria Apart Hospital, BR 101 Norte, Km 2, Serra in Espirito Santo. For other states in Brazil, please see ANVISA's list at http://portal.saude.gov.br/portal/arquivos/pdf/lista_hosp_referencia.pdf. WHO and CDC statistics show that most cases of influenza are not H1N1 Influenza and that the majority of H1N1 cases do not require hospitalization. For further information about H1N1 Influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website at http://www.pandemicflu.gov, and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html or a medical professional. For information on Brazilian authorities' procedures related to 2009 H1N1 flu, please consult the Ministry of Health at Http://portal.saude.gov.br/portal/saude/profissional/area.cfm?id_area=1534 or contact the Ministry Hotline at 0800-611997. http://brasilia.usembassy.gov/index.php?action=materia&id=7874&submenu=press.inc.php&itemmenu=10 Canada: The United States, Canada and Mexico continue to work together with international organizations in actively monitoring the H1N1 flu outbreak. For additional and latest information, please see the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: WWW.CDC.GOV http://www.consular.canada.usembassy.gov/ Chile: The United States Embassy advises U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Chile that the Government of Chile has taken measures in response to the outbreak of swine flu in the United States and Mexico. Officials of the Chilean Health Ministry have begun screening passengers arriving in Chile from the U.S. and Mexico, both by ship and by airplane, for symptoms of flu. Screening includes the use of passive fever scanners. If necessary, adult travelers arriving in the Metropolitan Region who are suspected of having swine flu will be transferred immediately for evaluation to "Hospital del Torax", minor travelers will be taken to "Hospital Calvo Mackenna", and all travelers arriving at Regions outside the Metropolitan Region will be transferred to the tertiary care hospitals (hospitales bases) in those regions. More information on the Chilean Government measures is available in Spanish on the Ministry of Health's web site: http://www.minsal.cl/. For further information about Human Swine Influenza, please consult the Department of State information on Swine Flu at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the United States Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ or the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. U.S. citizens in Chile should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy's website http://chile.usembassy.gov and the U.S. Department of State travel website www.travel.state.gov, where current Country Specific Information (CSI), Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. The U.S. Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html , which includes valuable security information for those both residing and traveling abroad. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. http://santiago.usembassy.gov China: June 19, 2009: The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the quarantine measures imposed by the Government of China in response to the 2009-H1N1 pandemic that may affect travel to China. This Travel Alert expires on September 30, 2009. Current quarantine measures in China include placing arriving passengers who exhibit fever or flu-like symptoms into seven-day quarantine. Although the proportion of arriving Americans being quarantined remains low, the random nature of the selection process increases the uncertainty surrounding travel to China. Travelers with even a slightly elevated body temperature risk being placed into hospital quarantine, while passengers sitting in close proximity to another traveler with fever or flu-like symptoms may be taken to a specially-designated hotel for a quarantine of approximately seven days, even if they show no symptoms themselves. In some instances, children have been separated from their parents because either the parent or the child tested positive for 2009-H1N1 and was placed in quarantine for treatment. This situation presents the possibility of Chinese medical personnel administering medications to minors without first having consulted their parents. The Department of State has received reports about unsuitable quarantine conditions, including the unavailability of suitable drinking water and food, unsanitary conditions, and the inability to communicate with others. Travelers to China are reminded that all foreign travelers, including U.S. citizens, are obliged to follow local procedures regarding quarantines and any other public health-related measures. The U.S. Embassy will be unable to influence the duration of stay in quarantine for affected travelers. The Chinese government will not compensate people for lost travel expenses. Travelers to China are urged to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect against losses in the event they are quarantined. For more information on U.S. Government policy during a pandemic, and for travel safety information, please see the State Department's "Pandemic/Avian Influenza" and "Remain in Country" fact sheets on www.travel.state.gov. Further information about 2009-H1N1 Influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, can be found at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website at http://www.pandemicflu.gov, and the World Health Organization http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. Embassy Beijing, May 6, 2009. This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza, sometimes referred to as swine flu. China has instituted the following procedures for border authorities to screen for the possibility of influenza among passengers on arriving international flights: 1) Flights arriving from affected countries, including the United States, will be segregated at specific gates and passengers will move through specific channels for Health and Quarantine (H&Q) clearance. 2) Prior to disembarking from the aircraft, passengers will be required to complete and submit a H&Q health declaration card, which will be provided by the air carrier. H&Q officials will collect the cards on board the aircraft or planeside. 3) All customers will be required to process through two separate thermal-scanning checkpoints. Temperature readings are taken by hand wands or from fixed-position infrared monitors that do not make any contact with the traveler. 4) If there are one or more suspected cases of H1N1 on an arriving flight, the air carrier will be required to report the case to Chinese H&Q prior to the arrival of the flight. Passengers and crew on the flight will be quarantined in a designated area (e.g., in Beijing, Terminal 3: Concourse D) until H&Q determines what steps to take, which may include simply completing a "Quarantine Card," undergoing a routine medical exam at the airport, or, in some circumstances, transportation to local hospitals and/or hotels designated for quarantine. 5) H&Q will implement different procedures for individual passengers with H1N1 influenza symptoms, which may include: 1) observation in a hospital designated to handle H1N1 cases, or quarantine (e.g., in Beijing: Guomen Hotel). As of May 4, 2009, the official quarantine period was announced to be up to seven days. As of May 5, 2009, the principal hospitals designated as H1N1 treatment centers are:
http://beijing.usembassy-china.org.cn/050609u.html Costa Rica: This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of H1N1 flu, also called Novel Influenza A (H1N1) and formerly known as "swine flu". To date, in Costa Rica there are eight confirmed cases and one fatality linked to the disease. The Costa Rican Ministry of Health has issued guidance on measures that should be taken to minimize transmission or exposure to the flu. This information can be found at their website at http://influenza.ccss.sa.cr/ Additionally, the Costa Rican Ministry of Health now requires arriving and departing passengers to complete a health questionnaire that includes whether the traveler has any flu symptoms, what countries the traveler has visited in the last two weeks, and where the traveler will be staying or has stayed while in Costa Rica. Travelers exhibiting flu symptoms shall be referred to a medical consultant to assess for possible H1N1 flu. Non-residents who are well enough to travel may be denied entry by Immigration authorities and returned to their point of origin. Costa Rican citizens and legal residents will be referred for further assessment and monitoring. The U.S. Embassy will continue to monitor this situation and will issue updated messages, as warranted. For further information about Novel Influenza A (H1N1), including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the United States Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1flu, and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. For additional travel safety information, please consult the State Department's website at www.travel.state.gov. U.S. citizens may also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the United States for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling (202) 501-4444 from other countries. Americans living or traveling in Costa Rica are encouraged to register with the Embassy in San Jose through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Costa Rica. Americans without internet access may register directly with the Embassy. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency. The Embassy is located at the intersection of Avenida Central and Calle 120 in the Pavas Section of San Jose; telephone (506) 2519-2188; after hours emergency telephone (506) 8863-4895; ACS unit fax (506) 2519-2099; e-mail at consularsanjose@state.gov ; web page http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/ Please continue to monitor the website of the U.S. Embassy in San Jose for further updates on the H1N1 flu in Costa Rica. http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/ http://www.costarica-embassy.org/ Czech Republic: WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A(H1N1) virus. Individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travelers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. As of now (May 18, at 0800 CET), Czech authorities have not discovered any cases of swine flu infection. In cooperation with the Czech Health Ministry, we will provide you with updated information on the swine flu. More information can be also found on the following websites: U.S. Centers for Disease Control, The World Health Organization, H1N1, Czech Ministry of Health, European Centre for Disease Prevention and Conrol. http://prague.usembassy.gov/ At Prague Airport, information boards on swine flu have been put up and medical examinations are available. http://praguemonitor.com/2009/05/04/edit-swine-flu-panic-also- hits-czech-republic Denmark: This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza, previously referred to as swine flu. The Danish National Board of Health has reported one laboratory-confirmed case of H1N1 Influenza in this country. This involves a Danish citizen who traveled on April 29 from New York; this person has been treated by medical personnel and is currently recovering at home in isolation. Although there have been other cases reported in European countries, at this time there are no reported deaths from H1N1 Influenza in Europe. If coming from areas with confirmed cases of the flu, and symptoms (coughing, fever, diarrhea, aching joints) occur, local authorities have advised the public to call their doctor and to explain that they could have been exposed to the H1N1 Influenza. The doctor will test that person to confirm if he is positive for H1N1 flu. Everyone should pay particular attention to careful hand-washing and to avoiding contact with those with possible flu symptoms. The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that most cases of influenza are not the 2009-H1N1 Influenza. Any questions or concerns about influenza or other illnesses should be directed to a medical professional. Although the Embassy cannot provide medical advice or provide medical services to the public, we do provide a list of doctors. For further information about 2009-H1N1 Influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State website , the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website, and the World Health Organization website . For additional travel safety information, please consult the State Department's travel website. U.S. citizens may also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the United States for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling (202) 501-4444 from other countries. Americans living or traveling in Denmark are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website, so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Denmark. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located at Dag Hammarskjolds Alle' 24, 2100 Copenhagen; opening hours for U.S. citizens in an emergency situation are 8:30 to 5:00 weekdays or call 33 41 71 00. After hours and on weekends, a duty officer responds to emergency calls only and may be reached through 35 55 92 70. http://denmark.usembassy.gov/http/denmark/warden-message.html Finland: Currently, there is no specific information about airport procedures regarding the H1N1 virus in Finland. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Rome for updates of theH1N1 virus in Finland. http://finland.usembassy.gov/index.html France and Monaco: In response to an outbreak of the H1N1 virus in Mexico and confirmed cases in the US and Canada, all Americans living and travelling in France should be aware of the latest information on the virus: http://france.usembassy.gov/root/pdfs/warden-messageh1n1.pdf Passengers arriving from Mexico will be tracked and their health checked. http://www.clipsyndicate.com/video/play/934907/ Germany: Currently, there is no specific information about airport procedures regarding the H1N1 virus in Greece. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Athens for updates of theH1N1 virus in Greece. http://athens.usembassy.gov/ Greece: Currently, there is no specific information about airport procedures regarding the H1N1 virus in Greece. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Athens for updates of theH1N1 virus in Greece. http://athens.usembassy.gov/ Italy: Currently, there is no specific information about airport procedures regarding the H1N1 virus in Italy. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Rome for updates of theH1N1 virus in Italy. http://italy.usembassy.gov/acs/warden/default.asp Japan: Warden Message: H1N1 Flu in Japan, May 18, 2009 This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of H1N1 Influenza A in Japan. On Monday, May 18 the Japanese government confirmed that domestic transmission of H1N1 influenza is occurring in Japan, largely concentrated in Osaka and Hyogo prefectures among high school age children. Media are reporting the total number of confirmed H1N1 cases in Japan as between 104 and 132, with numbers expected to grow over time. Please continue to monitor the website of the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, Japan for further updates on the H1N1 flu in Japan. http://tokyo.usembassy.gov/e/acs/tacs-swine-flu.html Additionally, information from the All Nippon Airways' website informs that to prevent the spread of Influenza A (H1N1), quarantine inspection has been conducted by the local authorities at each airport. Passengers arriving from US, Canada and Mexico are requested to remain in the aircraft before disembarking. They must fill out the health survey while quarantine officers wearing protective gear take each passengers temperature. At Narita airport, all passengers arriving from the U.S. (excluding Honolulu) are subject to Quarantine inspection conducted by the Japanese Authorities through Questionnaire and Thermal scanners. If suspected, or being seated near suspected passenger, the passenger will be sent to the designated accommodation (quarantine station -hotel-) located near Narita Airport and must stay there at least 10 days. Please continue to monitor the ANA website for updates on the situation at the airports. http://www.ana.co.jp/topics/notice090428/index02_e.html Mexico: May 18, 2009 CDC's Travel Health Warning recommending against non-essential travel to Mexico, in effect since April 27, 2009, has now been downgraded to a Travel Health Precaution for Mexico. CDC has been monitoring the ongoing outbreak of novel H1N1 flu in Mexico and, with the assistance of the Mexican authorities, has obtained a more complete picture of the outbreak. There is evidence that the Mexican outbreak is slowing down in many cities though not all. In addition, the United States and other countries are now seeing increasing numbers of cases not associated with travel to Mexico. Finally, the risk of severe disease from novel H1N1 virus infection now appears to be less than originally thought. CDC Recommendations: At this time, CDC has removed its recommendation that U.S. travelers avoid travel to Mexico. CDC continues to recommend that travelers visiting Mexico take steps to protect themselves from getting novel H1N1 flu. Full the full report, please visit: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/ travel-health-precaution/novel-h1n1-flu-mexico.aspx Please continue to monitor the website of the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City for further updates on the H1N1 flu in Mexico. http://mexico.usembassy.gov/eng/main.html Monaco: See France Peru: May 15, 2009 This warden message is being issued to alert U.S. citizens residing and traveling in Peru of the outbreak of Swine Flu in several countries throughout the region and the world. Although no cases have been reported in Peru, Peruvian authorities are expecting that Peru may also have some cases. Peruvian authorities have begun monitoring arriving passengers from the United States and Central America for swine flu. Incoming passengers may be asked to provide a throat swab, and provide contact information for their stay in Peru. Results may take several days. Authorities will contact anyone whose results are positive, and have said they will transport those people to a hospital, where they will be quarantined and treated. Peruvian authorities have provided a toll-free phone number to call for information; the number is 0-800-10828. The U.S. Embassy will continue to monitor this situation and will issue updated messages. For further information about Human Swine Influenza, please consult the Department of State information on Swine Flu by clicking here, the United States Centers for Disease Control website or the World Health Organization website. The U.S. based call center for U.S. citizens can be reached from 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, M-F, at 1-888-407-4747, or if calling from outside the U.S., at (202) 501-4444. For any emergencies involving American citizens, please contact the American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit of the U.S. Embassy's Consular Section, located in Monterrico, a suburb of Lima, at Avenida La Encalada, Block Seventeen; telephone 51-1-434-3000 during business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or 51-1-434-3032 for after-hours emergencies; fax 51-1-618-2397, or 618-2724 (American Citizen Services Unit); Internet website by clicking here. The Consular Section is open for American Citizens Services, including registration, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. weekdays, excluding U.S. and Peruvian holidays. The U.S. Consular Agency in Cusco, Peru, can be found at Avenida Pardo 845, Cusco. The office can be reached by phone at (51-84) 231-474, and is open Monday thru Friday, excluding U.S. and Peruvian holidays, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Lima, Peru for updates of theH1N1 virus in Peru. http://lima.usembassy.gov/ Russia: U.S. citizens in the Russian Federation should be aware that Russia has recorded its first confirmed cases of 2009-H1N1 influenza. The infected persons were travelers from North America; there have been no reports of H1N1 transmission within Russia. Russian authorities have implemented enhanced screening procedures for arriving airline passengers from North America, including the use of remote devices to take the temperatures of travelers prior to disembarkation. Anyone displaying flu-like symptoms may be subject to further examination and quarantine. In all instances of H1N1 influenza in Russia thus far, the patients have made full recoveries. The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that most cases of influenza are not 2009-H1N1 influenza. Any questions or concerns about influenza or other illnesses should be directed to a medical professional. Although the Embassy cannot provide medical advice or provide medical services to the public, a list of hospitals and doctors can be found on our website at http://moscow.usembassy.gov/medical.html. For further information about 2009-H1N1 influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website at http://www.pandemicflu.gov, and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. For additional travel safety information, please consult the State Department's website at http://www.travel.state.gov. U.S. citizens may also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the United States for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling (202) 501-4444 from other countries. Americans living or traveling in the Russian Federation are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Russia. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located at 21 Novinsky Bulvar (Garden Ring Road), Metro Barrikadnaya, tel. (495) 728-5577, or (495) 728-5000 after-hours. Our e-mail address is moscowwarden@state.gov. http://moscow.usembassy.gov/warden060209.html Singapore: American citizens in Singapore are encouraged to monitor MOH announcements and comply with local requirements. Details regarding Singapore's response are located at: http://www.moh.gov.sg/mohcorp/default.aspx Americans living in or traveling to Singapore are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration web site and obtain up-to-date information on travel and security within Singapore. Americans without internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy in Singapore. The U.S. Embassy is located at 27 Napier Road, Singapore 258508, tel. [65] 6476-9100, fax [65] 6476-9340; web site http://singapore.usembassy.gov/. In case of emergencies after working hours, the duty officer at the Embassy may be contacted by calling tel. [65] 6476-9100. South Africa: Currently, there is no specific information about airport procedures regarding the H1N1 virus in South Africa. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria for updates of theH1N1 virus in South Africa. http://southafrica.usembassy.gov/ Spain: Currently, there is no specific information about airport procedures regarding the H1N1 virus in Spain. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Madrid for updates of theH1N1 virus in Spain. http://madrid.usembassy.gov/indexbis.html Sweden: This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza, sometimes referred to as swine flu. The Swedish Institute for Infectious Disease Control (SMI) has yet to report any confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza A in Sweden. The combined efforts of the different Swedish governmental agencies can be found on http://www.krisinformation.se, which is maintained by MSB - the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency. Information on the H1N1 influenza in Sweden can also be found on SMI website: http://www.smi.se. The SMI has also set up a 24 hour telephone service to answer questions regarding the influenza: 020-20 20 00. At the advice of the SMI, the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs has issued a travel warning for Mexico. Please consult http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/11926 for more detailed information. All information is available in Swedish only. The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that most cases of influenza are not 2009-H1N1 Influenza. Any questions or concerns about influenza or other illnesses should be directed to a medical professional. Although the Embassy cannot provide medical advice or provide medical services to the public, a list of hospitals and doctors can be found on our website at http://www.usemb.se/Consulate/acs13_1.html. For further information about 2009-H1N1 Influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website at http://www.pandemicflu.gov and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. For additional travel safety information, please consult the State Department's website at http://www.travel.state.gov. U.S. citizens may also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the United States for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling (202) 501-4444 from other countries. Americans living or traveling in Sweden are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, http://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Sweden. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. http://stockholm.usembassy.gov/ Switzerland: WARDEN MESSAGE - 2009-H1N1 INFLUENZA, May 1, 2009 This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza, sometimes referred to as swine flu. As of May 1, the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health has so far reported one patient with confirmed 2009-H1N1 Influenza. Local authorities have set up a task force and issued guidelines for the public and travelers to affected countries. The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that most cases of influenza are not 2009-H1N1 Influenza. Any questions or concerns about influenza or other illnesses should be directed to a medical professional. Although the U.S. Embassy cannot provide medical advice or provide medical services to the public, a list of hospitals and doctors can be found on our website at http://bern.usembassy.gov/medical_information2.html. For further information about H1N1 flu, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the United States Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu, and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. For additional travel safety information, please consult the State Department's website at http://www.travel.state.gov/. U.S. citizens may also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the United States for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling (202) 501-4444 from other countries. Americans living or traveling in Switzerland are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Switzerland. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located at Sulgeneckstrasse 19, 3007 Bern; telephone +41 31 357 7011 including emergencies; emergencies after hours, on weekends and holidays: +41 31 357 7777. The fax number for the consular section is +41 31 357 2780; e-mail address: bernacs@state.gov; website: http://bern.usembassy.gov . Thailand: This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza, sometimes referred to as swine flu or novel H1N1. In response to the global spread of the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus, on June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the worldwide alert level to Phase 6, indicating that a pandemic is under way. While serious infections and a few deaths have been reported, most infections have been mild. The Thai Ministry of Public Health has reported that as of June 17, 2009, 405 cases of H1N1 have been confirmed in Thailand and 922 people are under observation. Local authorities in Thailand are using thermal scanners to monitor passengers arriving at international airports throughout Thailand and have quarantined travelers, including a few Americans, found to have elevated temperatures. American citizens should be aware that the U.S. Embassy in Thailand cannot demand their immediate release if they have been detained or quarantined in accordance with local public health and legal authorities, and cannot attempt to influence the terms or duration of quarantine. Quarantines in Thailand, however, have generally been of short duration. Any questions or concerns about influenza or other illnesses should be directed to a medical professional. Although the U.S. Embassy cannot provide medical advice or provide medical services to the public, a list of hospitals and doctors can be found on our website. Please access http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/service.html and click on "A Guide to Living and Working in Thailand" or email us at acsbkk@state.gov. Please note that the U.S. Embassy is NOT advising Americans in Thailand to depart. At this time the Embassy advises that Americans review the guidance provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, and make their own decisions about whether to remain in Thailand. For more information on U.S. Government policy during a pandemic, and for further safety information about H1N1 influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the following: The Thai government has advised the public to avoid travel to Mexico and certain parts of the U.S. The Thai government is also using thermal scanners to monitor passengers arriving at international airports throughout Thailand. For further information about H1N1 influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the following: Department of State information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html United States Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html Thai Department of Disease Control, Bureau of Emerging Infectious Diseases website at http://beid.ddc.moph.go.th/eng/ For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, and health-information resources can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada or, for callers in other areas, by calling a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok: http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/043009wardenmessage.html Trinidad and Tobago: Currently, there is no specific information about airport procedures regarding the H1N1 virus in Trinidad and Tobago. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago for updates of the H1N1 virus in Trinidad and Tobago. http://trinidad.usembassy.gov/security_warning.html Turkey: A thermal camera has been installed at Istanbul Ataturk Airport's international terminal to measure the temperatures of incoming international passengers as a precaution against swine flu. http://www.todayszaman.com/tz-web/detaylar.do?load=detay&link=173874 United Kingdom: Currently, there is no specific information about airport procedures regarding the H1N1 virus in the UK. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in London for updates of theH1N1 virus in Switzerland. : http://london.usembassy.gov/cons_new/warden_messages/index.html Vietnam: Warden Message, June 19, 2009 This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza A, sometimes referred to as swine flu. As of June 19, the World Health Organization and Vietnam Ministry of Health have confirmed fewer than thirty cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza in Vietnam. Warden Message, June 1, 2009 This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza A, sometimes referred to as swine flu. As of May 31, the World Health Organization and Vietnam Ministry of Health have confirmed one case of 2009-H1N1 Influenza in Vietnam. Any questions or concerns about influenza or other illnesses should be directed to a medical professional. Although the Embassy cannot provide medical advice or provide medical services to the public, lists of hospitals and doctors for the five consular districts can be found at the following websites: Hanoi: http://vietnam.usembassy.gov/acs_medinfo.html Ho Chi Minh City: http://hochiminh.usconsulate.gov/medical_legal_advice.html The Embassy and Consulate also wish to remind American citizens of the following information: A. Vietnamese Procedures for Quarantine Vietnamese authorities are screening all inbound passengers for the possible presence of the 2009-H1N1 virus among passengers arriving on inbound international flights. Arriving passengers should expect the following procedures upon arriving in Vietnam: 1. Passengers will be required to fill out declarations describing their recent medical and possible exposure history. 2. Screening will be performed using thermal scanning which will not make any contact with the traveler in HCMC and using a thermometer with an ear probe in Hanoi. 3. Passengers with a temperature over 38 degrees Celsius or exhibit flu symptoms will be referred to for further diagnosis. Passengers with suspected 2009-H1N1 influenza A will be quarantined and treated at the respective facilities: Ho Chi Minh City a. Tropical Disease Hospital, 190 Ham Tu, Ward 1, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Tel: 84-8-38380302 b. Pham Ngoc Tuberculosis Hospital, 120 Hung Vuong, Ward 12, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Tel: 84-8-39574127 c. Pediatric Hospital 1, 341 Su Van Hanh, Ward 10, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Tel: 84-8-39274034 d. Pediatric Hospital 2, 14 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Tel: 84-8-38295723 Hanoi e. National Institute of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, 78 Giai Phong Road, Hanoi, Tel: 84-4-35764402 f. Bac Thang Long Hospital, Block 3A, Dong Anh Town, Hanoi, Tel: 84-4-38833139 g. Duc Giang Hospital, Truong Lam street, Duc Giang Town, Long Bien District, Hanoi, Tel: 84-4-38774001 h. Dong Da Hospital, 192 Nguyen Luong Bang street, Hanoi, Tel: 84-4-35112505 4. If you are ordered into quarantine or admitted to a hospital for observation, please immediately contact the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi or the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City using the contact information at the end of this message. B. Information and Precautions for 2009-H1N1 Influenza A The Embassy and Consulate General remind U.S. citizens that, according to the CDC, illness caused by 2009-H1N1 Influenza A causes symptoms indistinguishable from typical seasonal influenza. For most people, these symptoms are mild and do not require specific treatment. Those at higher risk for complications from influenza illness include those under the age of 5, those over the age of 65, pregnant women and those with underlying medical conditions. Antiviral therapy might be indicated for those in these higher risk categories if they become ill. According to CDC, Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. CDC guidance listed below can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like the influenza illness: * Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too. * If possible stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness. * Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. * Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. C. General Travel Precautions and Guidance on Preparedness This evolving H1N1 story serves as important reminder of the need for taking precautions and preparing in the event of pandemic influenza. This is especially true for persons who live in Vietnam, where highly pathogenic avian H5N1 influenza A is endemic in animals and sporadic cases in humans do occur. Private American citizens should be aware that it may not be possible to travel during an outbreak of pandemic influenza. Governments may close borders suddenly and without advance warning; commercial air, land and sea carriers could curtail or cancel service; and restricting travel may be the best way to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. These developments could impede a return to the United States or travel to another country or region. Therefore, Americans who are overseas during a pandemic may need to remain where they are until conditions improve, a situation which could last several months. According to the CDC and the American Red Cross, in preparing for such a situation it is necessary to consider local conditions and evaluate your ability to maintain adequate supplies of food, water, and medication should a pandemic result in borders closing or disruptions in international travel. Decide on your optimal location in a pandemic and plan accordingly. Ask your doctor in advance about obtaining appropriate medication for treatment if you become ill, keeping in mind it could take many months to develop and produce sufficient quantities of a vaccine during a pandemic. Remember that U.S. embassies, consulates and military facilities lack the legal authority, capability, and resources to dispense medications, vaccines or medical care to private American citizens overseas. If you are a private American citizen (e.g., living, working, touring, studying overseas) you will need to rely on local health care providers and locally-available medications since U.S. government facilities will not be able to provide medications or treat you. American citizens are strongly encouraged to review their disaster preparedness plans and may wish to refer to the following websites to help plan for an influenza outbreak: US Department of Health and Human Services American Red Cross For further information about 2009-H1N1 Influenza A, including steps you can take to stay healthy, please consult the Department of State information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_pandemic.html, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website at http://www.pandemicflu.gov/, and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html. For additional travel safety information, please consult the State Department's website at http://www.travel.state.gov/. U.S. citizens may also call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in the United States for the latest travel information. The Office of Overseas Citizens Services can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada, or by calling (202) 501-4444 from other countries. Americans living or traveling in Vietnam are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Vietnam. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi is located at 170 Ngoc Khanh, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Socialist Republic of Vietnam, telephone: (84-4) 3850-5000; after hours emergency telephone number: (84-4) 3850-5000; fax: (84-4) 3850-5010. The web site for the U.S. Embassy Hanoi is http://vietnam.usembassy.gov/. The U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City is located at 4 Le Duan, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Socialist Republic of Vietnam, telephone: (84-8) 3520-4200; fax: (84-8) 3520-4244. The web site for the U.S. Consulate General is http://hochiminh.usconsulate.gov/. Please continue to monitor the website for the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi at http://vietnam.usembassy.gov/. |
