Swine Flu - What is Happening in Asia?

The World Health Organisation has raised the
alert level for swine flu from 4 to 5 which
means that the risk of a pandemic breaking out
has increased significantly putting the world on
full alert.

At risk level 5, countries have to ensure that
they have sufficient quantities of medicines
available to cope with massive infections occurring
in the population.
Governments are also required to introduce measures to
contain the spread of the flu virus. Screening at airports and
sea ports has been introduced in many
countries already.

Countries in Asia are not taking any chances.
After their experiences with SARS and avian
flu they are on high alert, poised for action if/
when necessary.

New Zealand is the only country in the region
with confirmed cases of swine flu - 14 at the last count -
with many other people placed in isolation. All
those who have contracted swine flu had
visited Mexico or North America recently.

In South Korea 5 suspected cases of swine flu
are being investigated, but no confirmed cases
have been reported. All 5 had recently visited
Mexico or the USA. The South Korean government
has designated Mexico a "travel restricted area"
for its citizens.

Australia has introduced new powers to isolate
and detain anyone suspected of having swine flu.
Aa a precautionary measure, aircraft arriving from
affected areas can be disinfected if it is deemed necessary.
According to the Australian Health Minister these steps
have been introduced so that "we can act nationally, we
can act quickly".

Hong Kong, China and Singapore are also
monitoring the situations in their countries
very carefully, Passenger screening, travel
advisements and airport checks are in place.