Flu News: WHO says travel restrictions not effective in this case

The World Health Organization reiterated it's stance against implementing travel restrictions, saying the step would not have a significant effect in slowing the spread of influenza A(H1N1) virus, according to a Friday, May 1, announcement.

"Today, international travel moves rapidly, with large numbers of individuals visiting various parts of the world. Limiting travel and imposing travel restrictions would have very little effect on stopping the virus from spreading, but would be highly disruptive to the global community," WHO officials said.

Instead, countries should focus on "minimizing the impact of the virus through the rapid identification of cases and providing patients with appropriate medical care."

The organization did advise individuals who are ill to "delay travel plans and returning travellers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. These recommendations are prudent measures which can limit the spread of many communicable diseases and not only influenza A(H1N1)."