Swine flu seriously impacts travelers
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Updated: May 01, 2009 8:51 AM
Cruise passengers can expect revised itineraries in their Mexican Riviera ports at least through April and May.
As a temporary measure until concerns surrounding swine flu are better understood, or have been resolved, Holland America, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity have chosen to revise most schedules to include shore time in alternate ports.
Air Transat and Sunwing flights to Mexico were cancelled on Tuesday, and have been temporarily suspended pending clarification from health authorities.
WestJet will cease service as of Monday, May 4, to Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta, but is expected to resume on June 20.
Most companies and hotels have waived cancellation and change fees for the majority of Mexican destinations. The dates may vary so be sure to check with your travel agent.
At Canadian airports screening measures for passengers returning from Mexico have increased. On Monday the Public Health Agency of Canada issued a warning to delay travel to Mexico if at all possible. Travelers still choosing to travel to and from Mexico can expect health questions from customs officers upon their return. Airport border officials have been directed to ask passengers if they have any of the swine flu symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, lack of appetite, coughing, sore throat, vomiting and diarrhea, or if they have been in contact with anyone with those symptoms.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has made similar recommendations. The CDC has recommended that travelers who are at high risk of severe illness from influenza, such as the elderly or people with chronic conditions like diabetes and lung or heart disease, should see their doctor for advice before travelling.
The World Health Organisation, at the time of going to press, has just upgraded the alert to a level five pandemic, while continuing to monitor the situation.
editor@CloverdaleReporter.com
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