Airports around the world have taken steps to better monitor travel as concern over the swine flu outbreak continues to grow.
In some cases, government officials have advised against non-essential travel to Mexico. However, the U.S. Travel Association assures that travel to and within the U.S. is safe. The association offered the following tips to maintaining good health while traveling:
– All travelers should take the advice of doctors and health experts on how best to manage health concerns.
– According to the CDC, the swine flu should NOT discourage people from traveling to/within the US.
– Use common sense when traveling: wash your hands, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods.
In response to the swine flu outbreak, Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, released this statement:
“Travelers, like all citizens, should heed the advice of experts when determining how best to manage health concerns. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Swine Influenza (swine flu) should not discourage people from traveling to or within the United States.
“We recommend that government officials treat this issue and any forthcoming statements with care and caution. We must address the situation with measured, pragmatic responses so as not to cause panic and negative consequences to the economy if health risks are not imminent.
“Recent health concerns, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Avian flu, provide useful guidance as governments, opinion leaders and travelers consider the appropriate response to swine flu.
“We stand ready to assist the U.S. government and health experts in any way necessary to communicate critical information to travelers. The U.S. Travel Association has contacted all relevant agencies with an offer to help in any way needed, and will soon begin posting updates on www.ustravel.org.”
Yesterday, the World Heath Organization lifted its pandemic alert to phase 4, causing some concern among some travelers who fear a wide-spread pandemic. While it’s important to note that the swine flu bug is curable if treated quickly with antibiotics, no one is naturally immune. If you’re feeling sick or have flu-like symptoms while traveling, it’s best to seek the advice of a medical professional immediately.
Meanwhile, if you have plans to travel to Mexico and wish to change your flights or travel plans, you should call your ticketing agent immediately. Many airlines have issued statements agreeing to waive the normal change fee to already purchased tickets to Mexico.
© Cheapflights Ltd Melanie Nayer
