# 3376
Ten days ago we learned that India, in an attempt to keep the H1N1 virus out of their country, was forcibly isolating suspected cases in government hospitals under their Epidemic Act of 1897.
Today, we get a travel warning posted on etravel.org, with information from the UK’s Foreign Office (FC0).
Travellers warned of new India swine flu measures
Monday, 22 June 2009: India
Rebecca Burns
Travellers to India from countries affected by swine flu (including the UK) are likely to be asked questions or be checked for symptoms by medical staff, according to the UK Foreign Office (FCO).
Travellers suspected of having H1N1 will be admitted to designated governemnt hospitals for compulsory quarantine, testing and treatment.
India has introduced these latest surveillance measures at International Airports in a bid to prevent the spread of the virus.
The FCO warns: "Tamiflu is only available through government hospitals and not openly on the private market i.e. pharmacies. Travellers should be aware that transfer from a government hospital to a more modern and better equipped private facility will not be permitted for those with suspected or confirmed H1N1. Travellers should consult their healthcare provider before travelling to India."
Other nations have tried, and failed, to keep the virus from their shores. While one can understand the desire to keep the virus out, it is hard to see how this strategy can work long-term.
All it will take is one infected but asymptomatic patient getting past these pandemic checkpoints and the virus will quickly spread.
A hat tip to Pixie on The Flu Wiki for this link.
Related Post:
Widget by [ Iptek-4u ]