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Swine Flu update - 30-Apr-09: International Transport Workers Federation

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International Transport Workers Federation advised airline personnel flying into Mexico to follow WHO and national government advice. The ITF announced that the Mexican Pilots' Union (ASPA) and the Mexican Cabin Crew Union (ASSA) have set up phone lines for inquiries. The ASSA received agreement from Mexicana, Aeromexico and Mexican regional airlines that flight personnel can use face-masks and gloves during meal and drinks services and during any part of the flight that could represent a risk.

Global union federation the ITF has given the following initial advice to airline personnel flying into Mexico.

The ITF is glad to endorse the recommendation of the World Health Organization, which advises: "No restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities." The WHO currently rates the infection at level four of its influenza pandemic scale - that is that it is not at pandemic level, and so far there is not sustained widespread transmission.

The ITF recommends following WHO advice, along with that of your national government, and says that its member aviation unions in Mexico have offered help to their colleagues from around the world who may be arriving in the country. Both the Aspa (Mexican Pilots' Union) and Assa (Mexican Cabin Crew Union) are making themselves available to assist, and have set up phone lines for this purpose. The ITF today distributed those numbers to its civil aviation and tourism members.

The Assa yesterday won agreement from Mexicana, Aeromexico and Mexican regional airlines that flight personnel can use face masks and gloves during meal and drinks services and during any part of the flight that could represent a risk.

ITF Civil Aviation Secretary Gabriel Mocho commented: "There has been a deeply saddening loss of life in Mexico, and we wish the best for all people there. We hope that the efforts to alleviate the disease's effects will speedily ease the suffering."

He continued: "It is important to realise that little is yet known about this virus. It is vital that, while people take sensible precautions - which for cabin crew may include access to N95-standard masks and gloves, should they be required - they should avoid panic."

"We will do our best to keep our affiliates up-to-date in the developments of this disease to help to ensure that workers are accurately informed and thus protected."