(PRNewsChannel) / November 17, 2009 / Melbourne, Fla. / Family practitioner Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos says to prevent the continued spread of H1N1 all airlines should have a lenient policy for passengers who have the virus and choose not to fly.
“People infected with H1N1 should not be traveling. If passengers face flight change fees or cancellation fees they will force themselves to fly and could put other passengers at risk,” says Dr. Haridopolos. “Twenty-two million Americans have been diagnosed with the virus this year and it’s easily passed from person to person. It's important that everyone get vaccinated and if they are sick, stay home.”
Some airlines don't allow a waiver for the large change fees despite being sick and many of them have vague language regarding when a passenger is deemed to be too ill to fly. Some even require the flight crew to make a game-time decision by visually diagnosing a passenger to determine if an illness-related cancellation is in order. But, with the widespread nature of H1N1 and how quickly the disease can spread, Dr. Haridopolos says the health and well-being of passengers should come first.
"Responsible citizens shouldn't be punished for doing the right thing," the Orlando area family doctor says. "This isn't just something that comes and goes - the swine flu is affecting millions and heading into the busiest travel season of the year, we could see the spread of the flu on an unprecedented level. We need to encourage sick people to stay home and offering them a chance to fly another time at the same price will do just that. It's time for a uniform policy to be established for the sake of passenger health."
Dr. Haridopolos says there are things you can do to help reduce your risk of contracting the H1N1 virus. “Wash your hands with soap and water several times a day,” she explains. “You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. And most importantly, limit your contact with those who have the virus.”
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, Dr. Haridopolos suggests visiting your family physician as soon as possible. “Anti-viral drugs work best when prescribed within the first few days of a person getting sick. So it is important to see your doctor as soon as you feel ill or have a fever.”
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