Everybody looks forward to a summer holiday, whether it is lazing in the sun, an activity holiday or simply a break from the stresses and strains of work and home. However, 2009 travellers have been concerned by the possible effects on their holiday of the swine `flu virus. The H1N1 virus emerged in Mexico in April, with the World Health Organisation declaring a global pandemic following an emergency meeting at the end of June.
The key symptom of swine `flu is a fever (a temperature of at least 38˚C), in combination with other complaints which may include sore throat, cough, aches and chills. Nausea, sickness and diarrhoea have also been reported in some cases. Sufferers are most infectious as soon as symptoms develop, but cease to be a risk once the symptoms have disappeared. The incubation period can be as short as 48 hours.
In most cases, the swine `flu infection has been mild and there are no wide-ranging travel restrictions. However, the website of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has reported screening of international passengers introduced at several airports, including in China. Official advice is that those with symptoms of swine `flu should refrain from travelling from the UK until asymptomatic. Similarly, UK nationals who have contracted swine `flu abroad are advised to wait until the infectious period has passed before travelling. Carrying passengers exhibiting swine `flu symptoms has been placed at the discretion of airlines. UK nationals prevented from boarding homeward-bound flights should seek advice from the nearest Diplomatic mission.
Before leaving the UK, travellers are advised to check the FCO website or 24-hour advice line (0845 850 2829) for country-specific advice on the H1N1 virus at their holiday destination. Travellers to Europe should take a free European Health Insurance Card, which entitles the holder to any medical treatment in another European Economic Area country. Applications for such cards may be made online, by ringing 0845 606 2030 or at main post offices. Sensible pre-travel precautions also include determining in advance where medical advice and / or treatment can be obtained. Packing over-the-counter treatments for `flu symptoms, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, is also a good idea.
Anyone experiencing `flu-like symptoms should keep away from public areas. While over-the-counter medications may be sufficient for mild cases of swine `flu, there are several high-risk groups who should be referred to medical professionals immediately. These include pregnant women, the elderly, diabetics, children under 5 and those suffering from chronic diseases. Recognising the signs of serious illness, namely breathing difficulty, chest pain, vomiting, dehydration, seizures and confusion is vital, as this requires emergency medical treatment.
The Department of Health Swine `flu Information line can be accessed from abroad by calling 00 44 207 928 1010. However, while cheap calls to Brazil represent excellent value, international calls can be very expensive and this number should only be used in emergencies.
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