Bird flu travel warning avian influenza outbreak

The warning applies to anyone travelling to Europe, Asia, North America or South America.

Attention all you adventurous travelers out there! The Governments has just dropped a bombshell for anyone planning to spread their wings and fly overseas. No, it’s not about dodgy exchange rates or overpriced souvenirs – it’s about the dreaded bird flu!

Yep, you heard it right. The bigwigs have put out a warning for anyone jetting off to Europe, North America, South America, or Asia. They’re not just talking about the usual travel woes like lost luggage or dodgy street food – they want you to be “aware of increased health risks”. Translation: watch out for those sneezy, feathery fiends.

Now, we all know that avian influenza is no joke. It’s like the mean girl of the animal kingdom – it mainly messes with birds, but it’s not afraid to throw shade at other animals too. And here’s the kicker – it can even make the jump to us humans. Yep, that’s right. You could be minding your own business, taking in the sights in some exotic locale, and suddenly find yourself face to face with a virus that’s more contagious than the latest dance craze.

What to do while you’re travelling:

• Minimise contact with animals in areas affected by avian influenza.
• Avoid contact with dead or sick animals, including wild birds.
• Avoid poultry farms and live bird ‘wet’ markets.
• Wash your hands often and thoroughly, especially after contact with animals and their environments.
• Ensure that poultry or poultry products are cooked thoroughly before eating.
• Monitor yourself for symptoms.
• Talk to a doctor if you’re feeling sick or unwell.

Bird flu symptoms

People infected with avian influenza may not show any symptoms.

If they do, they could include:

• Eye redness or irritation (conjunctivitis)
• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or blocked nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Pneumonia

Take sensible precautions, and go forth into the big wide world with your  travel spirit. And remember, if you do happen to come face to face with a flock of sneezing seagulls in San Francisco or a gaggle of coughing cockatoos in Rio, just smile and wave – and maybe give them a wide berth. Safe travels, mates!