Message about Avian Influenza type A (H5/N1) (bird flu):
Message from French Health Ministry
Message relatif a la Grippe Aviaire (Grippe du poulet..):
You are travelling to an area affected by type A (H5/N1) avian influenza
This illness affectes primarily poultry.
Cases of transmission
to humans have been confirmed.
Today contamination
occured through direct contact with sick animals.
In humans,
the illness is a flu-like syndrome with fever above 100 F (38C), sore throat,
muscle and joint pain and difficulties in breathing (shortness of breath,
cough).
The virus
is transmitted essentially by air (respiratory airways) or through direct
contact notably with fecal matter and respiratory secretions of sick animals,
or indirectly through exposure to contaminated objects (via the hands).
Closed spaces
favor the transmission of the virus.
During your
stay, avoir all contact with poultry both dead and alive: for instance do
not visit industrial breeding or poultry farms or bird and poultry markets.
Recommenfations
regarding basic hygiene when travelling in developping countries are more
than ever encouraged in particular:
-wash your hands regularly with soap and water or a special disinfecting
solution.
-eat only well cooked food and bottled drinks.
You are travelling from an area affected by type A (H5/N1) avian influenza
If during your stay in one of these countries you have been in contact
with flu-affected people or with poultry alive or dead (uncooked) AND
IF you develop sign of flu-like illness within 10 days of your arrival,
immediately sek medical aid by dialing 15 (in France). Remember to mention
that you are returning from a bird flu-affected country.
If the above
symptoms appear during the flight back, report immediately to the cabin
crew: appropriate mediacal care will be organized upon arrival.
