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Swine Flu Spreads

Travelers warned to avoid "non-essential" travel to Mexico City

BALTIMORE, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- With 40 Human cases of Swine Influenza A (H1N1) virus infections in the U.S., top officials declared a national health emergency Sunday. "Nobody is taking any chances," said Fran Lessans, CEO of Passport Health, the nation's largest provider of travel medical services and immunizations. "We are warning travelers to postpone their trips toMexico City and, if they must go we are counseling them on the use of antivirals to prevent and treat this type of influenza."

According to the World Health Organization, infections have been confirmed inMexico and 5 states inthe United States. The associated press reports that 12 million doses of flu-fighting medications are being mobilized from a federal stockpile in the event they are needed. The Belfast Telegraph reported early this morning thatScotland has also reported two cases of Swine Influenza; the travelers having just returned fromMexico.

"We have influenza immunizations and antivirals may be recommended," added Lessans. "But this is not your typical influenza strain. The influenza vaccine does not specifically protect against the Swine Flu, but it does help boost an immune response since the Swine Influenza strain is also A (H1N1)."

Protecting yourself: Antivirals Tamiflu (Oseltamiviror) or Relenza (Zanamivir) are used for treatment when exposure is suspected. The antivirals, which are available at some of Passport Health's nationwide offices, have proven to be effective against the Swine Influenza virus in laboratory tests. To be effective, the antiviral regiment must be started within 48 hours of exposure. concluded Lessans

She went on to offer some basic tips:

    --  Wipe surfaces such as door knobs and phones with chlorine-based
        products.
    --  Avoid travel to regions where Swine Flu has been detected.
    --  Avoid large crowds and leave crowds if you observe someone who is
        symptomatic.
    --  If you are symptomatic, stay at home away from large crowds and your
        workplace.
    --  Wear a surgical mask whilst in areas where the Swine Flu has been
        detected and when traveling on airplanes.
    --  When you cough or sneeze, if you do not have a tissue available, cough
        into your arm, not your hand. Use of hot soap and water and alcohol
        sanitizers are proven methods to avoid transmission of the virus.

Call your nearest Passport Health office: 1-888-499-PASS(7277) or check the latest updates at: http://www.passporthealthusa.com/travel-health-alerts.php

SOURCE Passport Health