smartraveller.gov.au - Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
It's a must see destination.
It's a must see destination.
Since 2003 there have been outbreaks of a particular strain of Bird Flu (H5N1 avian influenza) in a number of countries around the world affecting poultry and some wild birds. Although Bird Flu is primarily an infectious disease of birds it does occasionally cause illness in people and has resulted in human deaths. Currently people are only at risk of contracting Bird Flu if they have close contact with infected birds. At this stage there is no evidence that Bird Flu can be easily transferred from one infected person to another.
To find out if the country you are travelling to is affected by Bird Flu consult the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's travel bulletin on avian influenza.
Reduce the risk
The risk of infection for people travelling to areas affected by Bird Flu is currently considered very low. However, if you are travelling to an area affected by Bird Flu we recommend that you avoid situations where you may come into contact with live poultry such as at farms and live animal markets, eat only well cooked food and maintain good hygiene, particularly frequent hand washing. If you experience respiratory symptoms, such as cough accompanied by fever, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Be aware
There is a risk that Bird Flu may develop into a disease which is easily transmitted between people. This would make it a much more serious threat to human health. If the threat of transmission between people appears serious, the Australian Government will advise Australians in affected countries to leave. If you don't leave when you are first advised to do so, you may be unable to leave later and the Government's ability to assist you could be severely constrained. Please be aware that Australian embassies overseas cannot provide influenza antiviral medicines to Australians.
Be prepared
As with all travel overseas we strongly recommend that you visit www.smartraveller.gov.au to:
Also, make sure you keep your travel documents up to date, in case you need to leave at short notice.
When returning to Australia from overseas, you MUST declare for inspection any poultry meat and products (including raw or cooked chicken and duck), fresh or preserved eggs or egg products, feathers and items containing feathers, poultry vaccines, and any other animal products, plant material and food.
Further information can be obtained from:
This information is correct as at 5 April 2006 and subject to change without notice.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has prepared a range of publications for Australian travellers, including Hints for Australian Travellers, If you are arrested or jailed overseas and the Consular Services Charter. These publications may be ordered online.