Health officials are warning travellers who are likely to go to China during the annual festival, to take appropriate action to ensure they are protected against avian flu.
The festivities start on the 5 February with the Chinese Lunar New Year, marking the Year of the Pig and end with the Lantern Festival on the 19 February 2019.
It has been reported that the majority of avian flu cases in China have been through close contact with wild birds or poultry.
Recent case reports indicate that that avian influenza originated predominantly in provinces and municipalities across mainland China. But, there have also been a handful of cases in Hong Kong and Taiwan residents who have travelled to China.
Although the risk is very low, Public Health England and National Travel Health Network and Centre are reminding UK travellers to protect themselves from avian flu by minimising exposure to wild birds or live poultry.
As a precaution, health experts have advised people not to visit live bird or animal markets and poultry farms. Moreover, people should avoid dead or dying birds and maintain good hand and personal hygiene.
It is strongly advised that if you are planning on travelling to China, that you visit a GP, pharmacist or travel health clinic four to six weeks before travel to ensure you are up to date with any recommended vaccinations.
During your appointment, you can also discuss if there are any other potential health risks that you should be aware of before travelling.
Here at Harrow Health Care Centre, we offer the vaccination as part of our travel clinic.
To find out more about the full range of travel vaccinations we have available go to https://harrowhealthcare.co.uk/our-services/travel-clinic/
