Tips on traveling safely during swine flu season
Last spring, thousands of travelers canceled trips to Mexico after a swine flu outbreak emptied beaches and resorts. Staying home won't protect you now: 48 states have reported widespread flu.
Here are questions and answers on the topic:
Is it OK to travel?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say "some travelers at increased risk of complications from flu may want to consider postponing travel": The agency identifies those in the high-risk categories as pregnant women, adults 65 and older, children younger than 5 and those with chronic illnesses. Sick? Stay home. (See wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel.)
Will I face a health screening if I fly?
The United States is not screening air travelers, the CDC says. But other countries might. Measures include taking travelers' temperatures via a walk-by thermal scanner or thermometer. In the United States, airlines have the right to deny boarding to passengers for any number of reasons, including insobriety, uncleanliness and illness.
Should I wear a face mask?
The CDC doesn't recommended it. Most important is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. To protect others, use a tissue or cough and sneeze into your sleeve.
Frequent travelers have other rituals. Anne Banas, executive editor of Smarter Travel.com, says she cleans airplane tray tables with sanitizing wipes and avoids putting items in the seat back pocket.
If I cancel a trip because of swine flu, will I get a refund?
Travel suppliers aren't obligated, but it's worth asking.
What about cruises?
Sick passengers could be barred from boarding. Paul Motter, editor of CruiseMates.com, says that, because of past norovirus outbreaks, "the newer ships already have hands-free lavatory facilities, with doors that open automatically and hands-free sinks and toilets, as well as procedures to isolate passengers who become sick."
