Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is monitoring developments with respect to the influenza strain A (H7N9) that has been observed in China as well as other avian influenza viruses such as H5N1.
The United Nations has warned of bird flu viruses risk and for people in China to be vigilant during the Chinese New Year’s holiday period.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, millions of people and poultry are expected to be on the move and many households will slaughter poultry at home to celebrate festivities.
The standard advice to travelers to China is to follow good hand hygiene and food safety practices and to avoid contact with animals. While in China, avoid touching animals whether they are alive or dead and to avoid live bird or poultry markets and to only eat food that is fully cooked. Persons traveling to China for the New Year’s activities are advised to remain vigilant and observe measures recommended by local Chinese health authorities. The World Health Organization (WHO) does not advise against travel to China at this point in time, as there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus. Influenza A (H7N9) is known to affect wild birds and poultry.
Returning travelers from affected areas in China should look out for signs and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as fever and cough, and seek early medical attention if they are with such symptoms and take preventive measures to protect their family and love ones.
The Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius De Weever ‘Get Checked’ campaign emphasizes the importance of individuals informing their doctors of their travel history, should they develop these symptoms after returning to Sint Maarten.
Travelers to China should practice the following: avoid direct contact with poultry, birds or their droppings, and if contact is made, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water; Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly before eating; Wash hands frequently with soap and water (e.g. before handling food or eating, after going to the toilet, or when hands are dirtied by respiratory secretion after coughing or sneezing).
Also while in China avoid crowded places and contact with sick people with fever, and wear a mask when you have respiratory symptoms or are feeling unwell.