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ICCL News Release Archives
ICCL Statement: Avian Influenza (H5N1) Virus
(ARLINGTON, Va.) December 1, 2005 - The membership of the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) is dedicated to the health and safety of all cruise passengers and crew. The recent spread of Avian Influenza (H5N1) has caused concern among public health authorities and the traveling public. Although human infections with Avian Flu are rare, most cases have occurred from prolonged and direct contact with infected poultry in certain affected countries in Asia.
There have been no confirmed reports of Avian Flu on any ICCL member cruise ship, however, all ICCL member cruise lines continually follow guidelines for the highest level of health and safety measures as a matter of caution.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has currently not issued any travel restrictions, however, the following advice is recommended for travel to countries affected by H5N1:
* Avoid contact with live poultry and wild birds
* Avoid visiting live animal markets and poultry farms
* Avoid contact with surfaces contaminated with animal feces
* Avoid handling birds found dead
* Do not eat or handle undercooked or raw poultry, egg or duck dishes
* Exercise good personal hygiene with frequent hand washing
* Do not transport any live poultry products
CDC travel restriction and guidance can be found at www.cdc.gov/flu/avian.
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