CDC Removes Travel Health Warning for Mexico

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- The U.S. Center for Disease Control has lifted the Travel Health Warning that recommended against non-essential travel to Mexico due to the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu. The warning had been in effect since April 27. The CDC is has now issued a Travel Health Precaution for Mexico.

According to CDC and Mexican health officials, there is evidence that the Mexican outbreak is slowing down in many cities, but not all. In addition, the U.S. and other countries are now seeing increasing numbers of cases not associated with travel to Mexico and the risk of severe disease from H1N1 virus infection now appears to be less than originally thought.

The CDC is recommending that travelers at high risk for complications from any form of influenza discuss with their physicians the risks and benefits of travel to Mexico, and may want to consider postponing travel. Travelers at high risk for complications include:

- Children less than 5 years old
- Persons aged 65 years or older
- Children and adolescents (less than 18 years) who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy and who might be at risk for experiencing Reye syndrome after - Influenza virus infection
- Pregnant women
- Adults and children who have chronic pulmonary, cardiovascular, hepatic, hematological, neurologic, neuromuscular, or metabolic disorders
- Adults and children who have immunosuppression (including immunosuppression caused by medications or by HIV)
- Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities

For more information, please visit the links below.