H1N1 Risk in Mexico

The H1N1 virus (formerly known as swine flu) first came to the world's attention when several cases were detected in Mexico in April 2009. The flu gradually spread over the world, and was declared a pandemic. At no point has the World Health Organization recommended that people avoid travel to Mexico, however, the US Centers for Disease Control, as well as the US Department of State and the governments of several other countries advised their citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Mexico from April 27 until mid-May, when these recommendations were rescinded.

The fact that the H1N1 strain of influenza sprang up in Mexico, and the initial recommendations against travel to this country, have left a cloud of doubt in the minds of many about whether there is a greater chance of contracting H1N1 in Mexico than in other places. A recent news report from KSTP television station in Minneapolis looked at this question. See the video here: Fears of Higher H1N1 Risk in Mexico Debunked. In the video, Dr. Gregory Poland of the Mayo Clinic says that your chances of contracting H1N1 in Mexico may be less than if you stay home: "The warmer the weather, generally the lower the transmission risk."

If you're still concerned about catching the flu on your trip to Mexico, here are some tips to help you avoid it: H1N1 travel tips