Airlines prepared for swine flu
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) emphasised that
airlines are prepared for the heightened level of alert following the
World Health Organisation's (WHO) decision to move to Phase 5 of its
pandemic preparedness plan.
IATA has worked with WHO to prepare guidance materials for frontline
staff at airlines, including cabin crew, maintenance workers, cleaners,
passenger agents and cargo/baggage handlers.
"We are following the advice of the World Health Organisation. Safety
for passengers and crew is our top priority.
People getting on planes should be reassured of two things.
First, even under normal circumstances, airlines have equipment and
measures in place to keep the cabin environment safe.
For example modern aircraft have air filtration systems similar to
those in hospitals, aircraft are regularly disinfected as part of normal
cleaning routines and crew are trained in handling procedures for
passengers who might become ill on board aircraft.
Secondly, the years of planning for the possibility of avian
influensa have prepared the industry to deal efficiently with the
unfolding situation by following the recommendations of WHO," said
Giovanni Bisignani, IATA's Director General and CEO.
WHO advises there should be no restriction of regular travel or
closure of borders. It is considered prudent for people who are ill to
delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following
international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance
from national authorities.
"WHO is the global expert. WHO is not advising any travel
restrictions.
We hope that governments take decisions and coordinate their actions
in line with WHO recommendations," said Bisignani.
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