H1N1 influenza, or "swine flu" FAQ
Travel
How are we ensuring that people arriving in the United States are not ill? Are those who are sick being quarantined?
Customs authorities are screening travelers at the borders and monitoring the health of incoming travelers.
People who appear sick are being taken to a separate inspection area for further evaluation. If it is believed they do indeed have the flu, a decision will be made as to whether they can go ahead and enter the country and go to a place to get care or if they will be denied entry and sent home.
Is it OK for Americans to travel to Mexico?
As of April 27, 2009, the CDC recommends that Americans avoid nonessential travel to Mexico. CDC is concerned that continued travel by U.S. travelers to Mexico presents a serious risk for further outbreaks of swine flu in the United States.
The State Department has also issued a travel alert on April 28 warning citizens of the health risks of travel to Mexico at this time due to the swine flu outbreak.
For those who must travel to Mexico, CDC recommends standard influenza precautions for everyone such as avoiding close contact with those who are sick and regular hand washing. For those at high risk of severe illness from influenza, CDC recommends the use of antivirals.
For more information visit the CDC Web site.
Should people avoid public places? Products from Mexico?
Thus far cases of swine flu in the United States have been mild. There is no need to avoid public places. Follow the advice of your local, state and federal health departments should the situation change. There is also no need to avoid products from Mexico.
Should they use Tamiflu if they plan to go Mexico?
CDC recommends that travelers from the United States going to Mexico who are at high risk of severe illness from influenza — such as persons with chronic conditions like diabetes, lung disease and heart disease, and the elderly — are recommended to take antiviral medications for prevention of swine influenza during travel. Individuals should consult with their physician for specific recommendations.
Should we avoid anyone who has recently traveled to Mexico, even if they appear completely healthy?
If a person who recently traveled to Mexico has neither been ill nor is showing symptoms, there is no need to avoid that person. However, you can certainly take the same precautions you would ordinarily take to keep yourself from getting the flu. This means not sharing drinks or food, washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with anyone coughing or sneezing.
For more information, visit CDC’s H1N1 flu page.
updated 05/06/09
Return to the APHA influenza resources for health professionals home page.
