Influenza A (H1N1): Swine flu: Frequently Asked Questions regarding Travel

(Updated: May 1, 2009)

Q: Has the University suspended travel to Mexico?

A: Yes. The University called for a temporary suspension of all university-sponsored travel to Mexico, pending further developments in the outbreak of H1N1 flu in the United States and abroad. This suspension will be reviewed weekly.

Q: When will the suspension start and to whom does it apply?

A: The suspension went into effect April 28 and applies to University funded or sponsored travel to Mexico by students, faculty or staff for study, research, business or other University-related activity.

Q: Should I get a flu shot if I did not get one for this past flu season?

A: There is no indication that the vaccine developed for the just-ending flu season is effective against H1N1 flu, which is a new variant. Last season’s vaccine stock is depleted or nearly so.

Q: If I am scheduled to go on study abroad, should I still go?

A: Although the University has temporarily suspended all university-sponsored travel to Mexico, the status of U-M study abroad programs in Mexico with official start dates in June or later will be reviewed on a frequent basis and information will be communicated to participants as soon as decisions are finalized. Each study abroad program will have individual considerations based on location and start date. All students are encouraged to monitor the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organizations Web sites, plus local situations in their destination country, and to remain in contact with their study abroad program provider for updates.

Q: Are there any rules or restrictions about returning to the United States from Mexico?

A: No. There are no restrictions on travel at this time.

Q: Are there concerns that students who return from Mexico could spread H1N1 flu after they return to the United States?

A: H1N1 flu is poorly understood at this point. It is possible that a person who is in an infected area could be fine when returning home, because symptoms may not appear for up to seven days. It’s possible that someone returning from Mexico could be only slightly sick, yet infect someone else here, who could get more seriously sick.

The guidelines we are following now would suggest that if you have returned from Mexico within seven days and have flu-like symptoms—fever of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher, sore throat, runny nose, cough, respiratory congestion, diarrhea, or vomiting—you MAY have H1N1 flu. At this time, those who are not very sick should stay home, stay away from gatherings of people and take care of themselves. If you have those symptoms and are very sick Ð dehydrated, experiencing shortness of breath—you should contact your health care provider, let them know you have just returned from Mexico, and you need their advice.

Q: I am currently in Mexico. What precautions should I take to protect myself from swine flu?

A: The University recommends taking all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of exposure to those with flu-like illnesses and returning to the United States at the earliest opportunity. Avoid large crowds, limit close contact with anyone who is ill, and wash your hands frequently. Monitor news reports, information from the ministry of health, and follow directions of local public health authorities. Again, individuals should practice good health habits such as washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when ill.

Q: What recommendations are there for travel to San Diego, Texas, or other parts of the United States where clusters of H1N1 flu have been reported?

A: The CDC has not issued any warnings for travel within the United States, including areas with multiple cases of influenza. Watch the news, at this point, and take the usual precautions for avoiding cold and flu. The University will be providing additional guidance as things change.

Q: I will be traveling outside the United States in the near future. Where can I find information to learn if swine flu has been reported at my destination?

A: The situation is fluid, so keep an eye on the CDC web page for H1N1 flu.

Q: I will be flying to the United States from Mexico or another part of the world where H1N1 flu has been reported. Will I be allowed to enter the United States? What steps can I take to protect myself during travel?

A: No restrictions have been posed for entry to the United States. Frequent hand-washing, especially with an alcohol-base hand sanitizer can help lower the risk of exposure. Use of a surgical mask can help lower the chance of touching your hand to your mouth and nose.

Q: How long will someone who has had H1N1 flu pose a risk of infecting others?

A: The incubation period for H1N1 flu is 7-10 days.

Q: My co-worker just returned from Mexico. Should I be concerned about exposure?

A: Those returning from Mexico in good health should go to work. The CDC recommends that faculty and staff who experience flu-like symptoms stay home from work to keep others from getting sick. Flu-like symptoms are defined as a fever of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher, runny nose, cough and respiratory congestion. Also, the CDC Web site provides guidance for those returning from Mexico to the workplace.

Q: I come into contact with pigs during my research. Does this present a risk?

A: The CDC has indicated that there are no risks associated with coming into contact with pigs, or eating pork.

For additional questions specifically related to University travel please e-mail: .

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