Saturday, April 25, 2009
Travel Health Notice: Cluster of Human Swine Influenza in Mexico
Travel Health Notice
The Public Health Agency of Canada is tracking clusters of human swine influenza (flu) with deaths in Mexico. Since March 18, 2009, clusters of cases have been reported in multiple regions in Mexico.
Most of the cases involved previously healthy young adults between 25 and 44 years old. Some health care workers have also been affected.
In addition, Mexico is currently experiencing a late influenza season that began in early March 2009.
To protect themselves from these risks, it is recommended that travellers follow the same precautionary measures as with seasonal influenza. These include receiving a seasonal flu vaccine, washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when ill.
Canadians who have recently travelled to Mexico and who develop symptoms of human swine flu, especially high fever, are advised to seek medical attention immediately.
About Human Swine Influenza
- Swine influenza A H1N1 (swine flu) is a respiratory infection that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs.
- Sporadic human infections with swine flu have occurred, however these are usually caused by direct exposure to pigs.
- Human to human transmission of swine influenza has been documented.
Symptoms
- Usually includes symptoms similar to seaonal influenza (flu) including headache, chills, cough followed by fever, loss of appetite, muscle aches and fatigue, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may occur in adults as well as in children
- In more severe cases, or in people with chronic conditions, complications such as pneumonia may develop.
Recommendations for Travellers
- Get vaccinated against seasonal influenza
- Wash your hands
- By washing your hands with soap under warm running water, you will reduce your chance of getting the flu.
- Alcohol-based hand gel can also be used if soap and water are not readily available. It's a good idea to keep some with you in your pocket or purse when you travel.
- Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette
- Cover your mouth and nose to reduce the spread of germs. Remember to wash your hands afterwards.
- Monitor your health
- If you develop symptoms of influenza or human swine influenza while you are travelling or when you return to Canada, you should see seek medical attention immediately
- Tell the health care provider who sees you that you have travelled to Mexico
Don’t Forget
- Consult a health care provider, or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before you travel.
- What to do if you get sick when you are travelling
- What to do if you get sick after you return to Canada
- Know what vaccines you need and when to get them
Other related Information
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