Flu Pandemics: Swine and Bird flu viruses in Spain

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Flu Pandemics: Swine and Bird flu viruses in Spain

Various strains of influenza spread rapidly and can cause concerns of a pandemic. Most recently the A/H1N1 "swine flu" virus has caused concern worldwide; the H5N1 "bird flu" virus has also caused trouble by spreading rapidly through livestock. 

Information is always readily available in the media (print news and TV) and from government organisations.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) monitors health issues within the United Nations country and is responsible for coordinating the global response to human cases of influenza and the risk of pandemics.

• For general information on influenza from WHO: Click here
• Information on A/H1N1 Swine Influenza: Click here
• Information on H5N1 Avian Influenza: Click here

Swine Flu: Information for Spain 

Swine flu is a virulent flu virus. Its mortality rate remains very low and vaccines have been developed. The Spanish Health Ministry (Ministerio de Sanidad y Política Social) has published guidelines (in Spanish). 

• For detailed, up-to-date information on a number of topics: Click here  
• There is a citizens information line - Tel: 901 400 100 
  Note: this is not a medical diagnosis line but a place to call for general information
• For information from the UK Department of Health: Click here

Avian Flu: Information for Spain

The risk to humans is believed to be relatively low provided live animal markets, poultry farms and other places with close contact with domestic, caged or wild birds are avoided. Ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked. 

• Gripe Avair is the official Spanish Avian flu site, in Spanish: Click here
• The Spanish ministry of Health outlines its plans for an avian flu pandemic: Click here (in Spanish)
• The Spanish Ministry for the Environment has news and updates, sometimes in English: Click here

Bird flu, general information

• An in-depth analysis of the spread of bird flu and answers to many common questions from the BBC.co.uk
• More information can be seen on the website the UK Department of Health

Official Consular Information - Pandemics Affecting Humans

Consulates provide information for their nationals in the possible event of pandemic influenza. 

• Latest information from the British Consulate in Spain: Click here
• Travel advice on Spain from the British High Commission: Click here
• A guide for Australians living or travelling overseas: Click here
• Information for travellers from the US from the government: Click here
• Travel reports for Canadians: Click here

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