New Delhi: With rising cases of swine flu in India, Australia has issued an advisory to its citizens warning them to exercise high degree of caution against the increasing number of cases of swine flu and more countries are likely to follow suit.
"If you are travelling to India, discuss influenza vaccination requirements with your GP or a travel health professional before departing Australia." Warned a travel update, issued by Australia.
With surge in cases of H1N1 influenza in states like Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Delhi where tourist concentration is quite high, foreign countries are likely to advise their nationals against travelling to India.
The death of a Swiss national holidaying in India due to the disease has further aggravated concerns. In the last 10 days, the nation has observed a significant rise in number of deaths due to H1N1 virus.
As per the latest health ministry data - 6,298 cases of the disease have been reported from January 1 till February 12, whereas the death toll has reached 485.
While Delhi reported 1,189 cases, Rajasthan and Gujarat registered 1,631 and 1,233 cases respectively. Maharashtra reported 352 cases of H1N1 influenza and recorded 51 deaths this year.
Health ministry has ordered fast-track procurement of surplus protective kits, testing kits and medicines. The ministry has also drafted guidelines for vaccination of health workers who are in contact with H1N1 patients.
The issuance of foreign advisories has particularly worried the travel agents. "This is just the end of India's tourist season and while foreign travellers who make plans months in advance are unlikely to cancel, we fear they may curtail their trip. We have received some queries seeking advice and have assured them that the problem is under control," a travel agent said.
