Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Diseases
Bird Flu
'Bird flu' or Influenza A (H5N1) is a subtype of the type A influenza virus. This virus
typically infects birds and not humans; however, in 1997 the first documented case of
bird-to-human transmission was recorded in Hong Kong. The virus has been eliminated
from most of the 63 countries infected at its peak in 2006, which saw 4,000 outbreaks
across the globe, but it remains endemic in Bangladesh, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia
and Vietnam.
Very close contact with dead or sick birds is the principal source of infection and bird-
to-human transmission does not easily occur.
Symptoms include high fever and typical influenza-like symptoms with rapid deteriora-
tion, leading to respiratory failure and often death. It is not recommended for travellers to
carry antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu; rather, immediate medical care should be sought if
bird flu is suspected.
There is currently no vaccine available to prevent bird flu. For up-to-date information,
HEALTH ADVISORIES
It's a good idea to consult your government's travel-health website before departure.
Hepatitis A
This virus is transmitted through contaminated food and water, and infects the liver, caus-
ing jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), nausea and extreme tiredness. There is no specific
treatment available; you just need to allow time for the liver to heal, which might take
many weeks.
