Avian Flu Diary: PHE: Advice For American Travelers In Japan

# 5412

The PHE.GOV (Public Health Emergency) website by the HHS is a portal of valuable information on all types of public health emergencies.

I wrote about it last July when it made its debut in PHE.GOV: Public Health Preparedness Has A New Home.

Today they’ve released a series of announcements regarding precautions that Americans should take if they are in Japan.

Information for Travelers

2011 Earthquake, Tsunami, and Radiation Release in Japan Mar 17, 2011
2011 Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan: Health Information for Expatriates and Students Living in Japan Mar 17, 2011
2011 Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan: Health Information for Humanitarian Aid Workers Mar 17, 2011

(Note: The first link is not active as of this posting).

Earlier today the Embassy in Japan issued a lengthy statement that, among other things, counseled:

The State Department strongly urges U.S. citizens to defer travel to Japan at this time and those in Japan should consider departing.

Leaving Japan is basically a suggestion on the part of the State Department, and so no evacuation by the United States is underway.

The 2nd announcement in the above list provides important information for Americans currently in Japan and unable or unwilling to heed this advice.

2011 Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan: Health Information for Expatriates and Students Living in Japan

This information is current as of today, March 17, 2011 at 11:32 EDT

Released: March 17, 2011

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission recommends that all Americans within 50 miles of the Fukushima reactors should evacuate the area.

On March 11, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake occurred off the east coast of Japan. A subsequent tsunami struck the coast, killing thousands of people and causing serious, widespread damage to buildings, roads, and power lines, particularly along the east coast of the Tohoku region. Nuclear power plants damaged by the earthquake and tsunami have emitted radioactive material into the environment. If you are a US citizen living or studying in Japan, CDC recommends that you take precautions to protect your health.

Radiation

Damage to the Fukushima nuclear power plant following the earthquake and tsunami has resulted in an ongoing leak of radiation from this facility. The Japanese government has evacuated hundreds of thousands of residents of Fukushima Prefecture living within 20 kilometers of the nuclear power plant. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission currently recommends that all Americans remain a minimum of 80 kilometers (50 miles) away from the plant. At this time, the risk of exposure to radiation and the risk of contamination from radioactive materials are believed to be low, especially for anyone outside of a 50 mile radius of the nuclear power plant.

If you believe that you have been exposed to radiation, seek medical care right away. If you have already returned to the United States, explain that you have traveled to Japan and might have been exposed to radiation.

Injury

Floodwaters, downed power lines, wet electrical outlets, interrupted gas lines, and debris all pose health risks. Any wound or rash can become infected, so clean any wound thoroughly with soap and water and have it evaluated as soon as possible by a health care professional. Wear sturdy, thick-soled shoes to protect your feet in tsunami-affected areas. Avoid downed power lines.

Mental Health

Because of the tremendous devastation and loss of life and the worry about radiation, you may find the situation extremely stressful. Keeping items of comfort, such as family photos, favorite music, or materials that provide spiritual support nearby can offer comfort in such situations. Checking in with family members and close friends from time to time can also be a source of support. For detailed information about mental health resources after a disaster, visit http://www.bt.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/.

Food and Water Precautions

Although travelers’ diarrhea is generally considered to be a low risk in Japan, disruptions caused by the tsunami could have contaminated water sources. You should follow basic food and water precautions in affected areas: drink only bottled beverages, eat only food that is cooked and served hot, and eat raw fruits and vegetables only if you have washed and peeled them yourself. For more information on travelers’ diarrhea, visit http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/travelersdiarrhea_g.htm.

Returning to the United States

The United States is not evacuating citizens from Japan. In areas not affected by the tsunami and outside the nuclear power plant evacuation zone, the threat to health is currently thought to be minimal. However, US citizens who wish to leave Japan are encouraged to use commercial flights. International commercial carriers continue to offer regular flights from numerous Japanese airports.