No vaccine is currently available for the prevention of avian influenza in travelers.
In an area where the circulation of the avian influenza virus is recognizedthe traveler should:
- Avoid direct contact with animals (mammals and birds) alive or dead;
- If contact cannot be avoided, wear gloves, then wash hands after removing gloves, immediately after contact.
- Avoid going to risky places such as:
- Live animal markets;
- Livestock farms (poultry, cattle, pigs, others);
- Slaughter locations.
- If a visit cannot be avoided, it is recommended to wear a mask and avoid touching animals.
- Avoid contact with surfaces contaminated by animal secretions or excrement, even outdoors;
- Avoid consuming products that could be contaminated:
- Poultry, game meat and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before consumption;
- Dairy products should be pasteurized.
- Practice basic hygiene measures:
- Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water (or with alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol, if soap and water are not available);
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
- Avoid being in contact with sick people.
In the event of flu-like symptoms during travel and up to two weeks after returning to Canada, the traveler should:
- Respect respiratory etiquette (cough into the crook of the elbow, wear a mask, etc.);
- Avoid contact with other people;
- Consult a health professional, notifying in advance that you are arriving from a country where the avian influenza virus is circulating.
National recommendations related to avian influenza
Health
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