June 2, 2009. Government Warning Issued for Vietnam
| SOURCE: | Air Security International |
U.S. Consulate Ho Chi Minh City issued the following Warden Message on 1 June 2009: "This Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of 2009-H1N1 Influenza A, sometimes referred to as swine flu. As of May 31, the World Health Organization and Vietnam Ministry of Health have confirmed one case of 2009-H1N1 Influenza in Vietnam."
"The Embassy and Consulate also wish to remind American citizens of the following information:"
"A. Vietnamese Procedures for Quarantine"
"Vietnamese authorities are screening all inbound passengers for the possible presence of the 2009-H1N1 virus among passengers arriving on inbound international flights. Arriving passengers should expect the following procedures upon arriving in Vietnam:"
"1. Passengers will be required to fill out declarations describing their recent medical and possible exposure history."
"2. Screening will be performed using thermal scanning which will not make any contact with the traveler in HCMC and using a thermometer with an ear probe in Hanoi."
"3. Passengers with a temperature over 38 degrees Celsius or exhibit flu symptoms will be referred to for further diagnosis."
"B. Information and Precautions for 2009-H1N1 Influenza A:"
"The Embassy and Consulate General remind U.S. citizens that, according to the CDC, illness caused by 2009-H1N1 Influenza A causes symptoms indistinguishable from typical seasonal influenza. For most people, these symptoms are mild and do not require specific treatment. Those at higher risk for complications from influenza illness include those under the age of 5, those over the age of 65, pregnant women and those with underlying medical conditions. Antiviral therapy might be indicated for those in these higher risk categories if they become ill."
"According to CDC, Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. CDC guidance listed below can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like the influenza illness: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too. * If possible stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness. * Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs."
"C. General Travel Precautions and Guidance on Preparedness:"
"This evolving H1N1 story serves as important reminder of the need for taking precautions and preparing in the event of pandemic influenza. This is especially true for persons who live in Vietnam, where highly pathogenic avian H5N1 influenza A is endemic in animals and sporadic cases in humans do occur."
"Private American citizens should be aware that it may not be possible to travel during an outbreak of pandemic influenza. 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."
"According to the CDC and the American Red Cross, in preparing for such a situation it is necessary to 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."
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