Travel and mass gatherings
Information for travellers
Infection rates with pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza are increasing in the northern hemisphere. The flu season started early and the pandemic influenza appears to be the dominant strain in many countries.
Developments overseas should not deter people from travel, particularly as Australians can still travel safely by getting the free vaccine before they go. This vaccine will help protect you from becoming ill when away and also reduce the risk of you bringing the virus back to Australia.
Vaccination prior to travel is recommended for people 6 months and older. Vaccination for people over 10 years of age requires a single dose. Children under 10 years of age will need two doses, delivered no less than 28 days apart.
Vaccinations should be completed at least two weeks prior to travelling to allow time for immunity to develop.
Where to get vaccinated and more information on Australia’s vaccination program
For more information on the influenza and international destinations visit
www.smartraveller.gov.au
The World Health Organisation provides regular updates on international developments. Visit
WHO Global Alert and Response
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Information for travel agents
As part of helping people plan for overseas trips travel agents have an important role in informing clients of the free vaccine to help protect travellers from getting pandemic influenza while overseas.
Vaccine Questions and Answers – where and how to get to get the free vaccine
Vaccination information poster (PDF 187 KB) – medium resolution file for in-house printing and display
Vaccine Counter Notice (PDF 16 KB) – for in-house printing
Vaccine Brochure – order free information brochures for your agency
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Gatherings
Gatherings of lots of people such as at conferences, sporting events, church services and concerts are not discouraged during the
PROTECT phase. This is because the disease is mild in most people.
However there are two important considerations for people attending gatherings of large numbers of people.
People who are unwell with influenza should always isolate themselves from others by staying away from gatherings and trying to limit the spread of the illness.
People who are vulnerable to serious complications of influenza need to reconsider their attendance at such events as contact with large numbers of people can increase the risk of coming into contact with the infection.
More detail on www.healthemergency.gov.au:
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