The chairman of Tourism Fiji has raised concerns that the outbreak of the Swine Flu has become a challenge for the tourism industry in Fiji, with the possibility of travel restrictions affecting visitor arrivals.
Patrick Wong said there is a possibility of a threat in regards to visitor arrivals into Fiji mainly from New Zealand registering likely cases, and the constant traffic out of North America and Europe.
However, Wong said he has been assured by the Health Ministry and the Quarantine Departments about control measures put in place.
He said the tourism industry employees have also been informed about the flu and told to report any cases of guests who are unwell to the management.
Meanwhile, an International Public Health Emergency on the Swine Flu has been declared by the World Health Organization on the reported cases of the virus from Mexico and North America.
Mexico had earlier said 149 deaths is believed to have been caused by the virus however only 20 have been laboratory confirmed while there are also 1,400 suspected cases with 11 confirmed in the US and 56 cases are also being suspected in New Zealand.
This is a concern because it is spreading by human to human transmission.
Our Health Ministry said its major goal is to implement influenza surveillance to identify the virus in the population as quickly as possible and as a result a National Taskforce has been established to keep an eye on the situation.
There are currently no restrictions on travel however if you have just returned from a trip to the affected areas, that is, California and Texas in the US, and Mexico and have developed fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches and chills within 7 days, report immediately to the nearest divisional hospital, that is the CWM in Suva, Lautoka Hospital and Labasa Hospital as well as the Nausori and Namaka Health Centres.
As we approach our winter season and influenza seasonal peak, please cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a mask or tissue, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face, avoid contact with sick people and stay at home if you are unwell.
Also note that the Swine flu is not transmitted by food or from eating pork products.
Flu outbreak concerns Tourism Chair
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