Concerns About The Avian Flu In Turkey

We are pleased to report that in light of the positive travel advice from respected authorities such as the World Health Organisation our guests have elected to make an informed choice and are continuing to book over the past few weeks. We very much expect this trend to continue.

As responsible tourism professionals, we are in contact with the authorities regarding the avian influenza outbreak in Turkey in particular.

The risk of contracting avian flu while visiting affected countries is believed to be very low and there is no reason not to travel to these countries. It is important to note that the overall level of advice regarding travel to Turkey has not changed - it has merely been updated and amended.

The WHO advises: “The risk of avian influenza to humans is almost entirely confined to those who have had close contact with infected domestic poultry. For people who have no contact with domestic or wild birds the risk is almost non-existent.” We would have no reason to expect our guests to be in contact with such birds.

There are no specific restrictions for travellers to any of the countries affected by avian influenza, “as the risk is believed to be very low”.

In Turkey, as in the other countries where cases of avian influenza have been reported, you should avoid visiting live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked. Normal cooking destroys the avian influenza virus. No cases of avian influenza have been linked to the consumption of properly cooked poultry and egg products.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The World Health Organisation

Online Q & A – Avian Influenza: am I at risk?
Recommendations relating to travellers coming from and going to countries experiencing outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza.
Avian influenza – situation in Turkey: update 18.01.2006