Thursday, 3 September 2009

The Precautions you should take when traveling to another country during an H1N1 pandemic

By Braniff Watson

In early 2009, the world was shaken by the news of a new influenza virus that was spreading around Mexico and slaughtering some of those infected. First dubbed 'swine flu' by the media, the H1N1 flu pathogen has been spreading fast across all 5 continents in the time of this writing. The H1N1 influenza pathogen has received much media attention as it is highly contagious.

it could also cause death in high risk groups such as youngsters, pregnant ladies, the old and those afflicted with medical infirmities such as diabetes, hypertension, heart issues, obesity and other medical issues. The deaths aren't from the virus itself but the H1N1 virus can intensify present conditions and often cause other issues like pneumonia, leading to death.

Another reason the H1N1 flu is much feared is really because scientists have revealed that this new strain of H1N1 virus is kind of unstable and may mutate to become even more stronger and dangerous. Professionals are monitoring the progress of the virus and report in late July that so far the virus isn't mutating to something more deadly.

Cut down on high cholesterol and sweet products like alcohol-free drinks, sweet treats and junk food. Remember, obesity is one of the high risk groups for H1N1-related deaths. Private cleanliness care is most critical as the virus can spread through contact with a polluted surface like a door handle, railings, table surfaces and that kind of stuff.

Scrub your hands with an antiseptic hand-wash often, particularly after going to public places like toilets, cafes and sitting on public transport. Carry antiseptic hand-wipes or tissues to wipe your hands after touching doors, tables, escalator handholds, turnstiles, public phone booths and other surfaces in public areas. The H1N1 virus can linger on any surface for at least some hours and you'll get infected thru contact.

Avoid Crowded Area and Wear a Face Mask if you can not. Try and avoid crowded areas like theatres, discos, shopping malls and markets if you can. If you've got to go to an overcrowded area, wear a face mask. One of the finest sort of masks to wear would be the N95 face masks. Try and avoid touching your face, particularly your mouth and nose, when in public areas. You'll have touched a poisoned surface and may transfer the H1N1 virus unknowingly to oneself.If you're sick and suspect that you've got the H1N1 flu, then go to a doctor to find treatment.

Later, if you aren't hospitalized, stay at your hotel room to recuperate.

You could have travel or medical insurance plans that may cover the price of hospital therapy in a foreign country. Before you leave your country to go traveling, do check with your insurance broker that you are covered in the event of a H1N1 emergency during your travels.Medical costs can be dear in another country and you have to be prepared in the event of an emergency.

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