Airlines Respond to WHO Warning

While there is currently nothing absolute that the airlines can do to fully prevent the further spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), airlines in Asia and around the world are putting measures in place to reduce any potential risk as much as possible.

The precautionary measures taken by many airlines for the well-being of its customers include:

· Alerting the Airline's airport managers, check-in staff and other ground staff of the symptoms of SARS, so that passengers with flu-like symptoms can be made aware of the WHO's advice and strongly urged not to travel unless medical clearance has been obtained;

· Advising cabin crew members of the recommendations for the management of passengers who become ill in-flight with flu-like symptoms; 

· Advising cockpit crew that if they have reason to believe a passenger or crew member on board may be suffering from SARS, they should contact the relevant  authorities at the next port of call so that appropriate medical procedures are immediately put in place;

· Making copies of WHO advice available at check-in counters.

Many airlines already have a policy in place of not carrying any passenger with a known infectious disease,  in such circumstances boarding may be denied to customers by the airline. 

In order to avoid confusion and unnecessary delays airlines have also advised customers with flu-like symptoms to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Those who are unwell but intend to travel are advised to seek medical advice beforehand and carry a doctor's letter, certifying that they have been examined and are fit to travel. 

Read More: World Health Organization issues emergency travel advisory.