# 2340
When it comes to pandemic information, we invariably think first of the CDC or the HHS as sources for good information. Pandemicflu.gov has become the most popular portal of government sponsored pandemic information, but it is by no means the only place to get good information.
For Americans who travel abroad, however, the U.S. State Department has copious amounts of important information and advice. Their avian flu fact sheet (updated Sept 2008) gives the U.S. policy on returning Americans during a pandemic.
(A hat tip goes to Treyfish on Flutrackers for posting these updates)
Once the World Health Organization (WHO) confirms a severe pandemic – defined as the emergence of a sustained, efficient human-to-human transmission of a new influenza virus that kills at least 1-2% of the people it infects – American citizens (including non-emergency government employees, their dependent family members and private citizens) residing or traveling overseas should consider returning to the United States while commercial travel options (air, land or sea) are still available.
Americans will be permitted to re-enter the United States, although the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (HHS/CDC) may quarantine or isolate incoming travelers, depending on their health status and whether they are traveling from or through an area affected by pandemic influenza.
Obviously good news for travelers. But of course, being allowed to return home and being able to are two different things.
The State Department warns that if a serious pandemic erupts you may be forced to . . .
Remain in Country During a Pandemic.
(reformatted for readability)
Health professionals are concerned that the continued spread of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus among animals (mainly poultry) in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe has the potential to significantly threaten human health.
If highly pathogenic avian influenza, such as the H5N1 subtype, mutates and spreads easily from one person to another, influenza could break out globally, and lead to a pandemic.
While there are no reports of sustained human-to-human transmission of such a virus, the U.S. Government and international health agencies are advising Americans living, working and/or traveling overseas how to prepare for a pandemic, should one strike.
Private American citizens should be aware that it may not be possible to travel during an outbreak. Governments may close borders suddenly and without advance warning; commercial air, land and sea carriers could curtail or cancel service; and restricting travel may be the best way to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus.
These developments could impede a return to the United States or travel to another country or region. Therefore, Americans who are overseas during a pandemic may need to remain where they are until conditions improve, a situation which could last several months.
Private American Citizens Living and/or Working Overseas: Consider local conditions and evaluate your ability to maintain adequate supplies of food, water, and medication should a pandemic result in borders closing or disruptions in international travel.
Decide on your optimal location in a pandemic and plan accordingly. Ask your doctor in advance about obtaining appropriate medication for treatment if you become ill, keeping in mind it could take many months to develop and produce sufficient quantities of a vaccine during a pandemic.
Remember that U.S. embassies, consulates and military facilities lack the legal authority, capability, and resources to dispense medications, vaccines or medical care to private American citizens overseas.
If you are a private American citizen (e.g. living, working, touring, studying overseas) you will need to rely on local health care providers and locally-available medications since U.S. government facilities will not be able to provide medications or treat you.
Short-Term Visitors, Tourists, and Students Abroad: Consult with your doctor before you travel and ask about medications you should take with you. Research the availability and quality of medical facilities at your destination.
Be aware that hotels may cease to provide housekeeping and food services during a pandemic. Consider changing your travel plans or returning to the U.S. once there is evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission, since commercial air transport may become unavailable at an early point.
Plan to Remain in Country: If the WHO declares a pandemic, Americans who are overseas should be prepared to remain in country for an extended period.
You should avoid non-essential travel beyond your home and workplace and you should limit activities that could expose you to others who may be ill.
Based on varying conditions abroad, Americans should prepare contingency plans and emergency supplies (non-perishable food, potable water or water-purification supplies, medication, etc.) for the possibility of remaining in country for at least two and up to twelve weeks.
Visit www.pandemicflu.gov to see examples of comprehensive planning checklists for individuals, businesses, schools, and other groups.
The State Department also has a page of frequently asked questions, along with their responses.
Frequently Asked Questions about Avian Influenza A (H5N1) and Pandemic Influenza
- What is the difference between seasonal, avian (or bird) and pandemic influenza?
- Where can I find up-to-date medical and planning information on H5N1 avian influenza Type A (H5N1) and pandemic influenza?
- How can I prepare for a pandemic?
- Are Tamiflu® and Relenza® effective in treating or preventing human cases of avian influenza?
- How can I obtain antiviral medications?
- I have a pre-existing medical condition?
- Will the U.S. Government evacuate Americans from overseas?
- What will happen if I can’t return to the United States?
- What if foreign health officials quarantine me overseas?
- Why can’t I get a pandemic vaccine?
- What should I do if avian influenza A (H5N1) breaks out in poultry where I am living?
- Can avian influenza infect my pets?
I know of no other nation that is providing this much good information to its citizens about the difficulties they may encounter during a pandemic. While it may require a bit of searching to find, the information is out there.
If you are planning to travel abroad it would be well worth your time to visit the State Department's website.
Another resource International travelers should consult before traveling is OSAC, the Overseas Security Advisory Council, which provides the latest information about security threats around the world.
