Can I travel?
If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of influenza, you should not travel.
If you have been in close contact with someone you is ill you should consider delaying your travel.
If you have any doubts about your health, you should check with your health care provider PRIOR to travel.
Is it safe to travel?
Yes. WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza AH1N1) virus. Today, global travel is commonplace and large numbers of people move around the world for business and leisure. Limiting travel and imposing travel restrictions would have very little effect on stopping the virus from spreading, but would be highly disruptive to the global community.
Influenza A(H1N1) has already been confirmed in many parts of the world. The global response now focuses on minimizing the impact of the virus through the rapid identification of cases, and providing patients with appropriate medical care, rather than on stopping its spread internationally.
Although identifying signs and symptoms of influenza in travelers is important to track the path of the outbreak, it will not reduce the spread of influenza, as the virus can be transmitted from person to person before the onset of symptoms.
Does WHO recommend screenings at country entry and exit points to detect if ill people are travelling?
No. We do not believe entry and exit screenings would work to reduce the spread of this disease. However country-level measures to respond to a public health risk are the decision of national authorities, under the International Health Regulations 2005.
Countries that adopt measures that significantly interfere with international traffic (e.g. delaying an airplane passenger for more than 24 hours, or refusing country entry or departure to a traveller) must provide WHO with the public health reasoning and evidence for their actions. WHO will follow up with all of its Member countries on such matters.
Travelers should always be treated with dignity and respect for their human rights.
How can I protect myself from influenza A(H1N1) when I am traveling?
People who are ill should delay travel plans. Returning travelers who become ill should contact their health care provider.
Travelers can protect themselves and others by following simple prevention practices that apply in daily life.
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze with your sleeve, a tissue, or a mask.
- Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and who have a fever and cough. (If you are the sick person, try to stay away from other people.)
- Practice good health habits including getting adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.