Virus Prompts Travel Restrictions in Popular Tourist Destinations

(KMDL-FM) Stop me if you've heard this before: there is a virus circulating that health officials worldwide are concerned could be spread by travelers. No, this is not a rehash of the COVID-19 pandemic of a few years ago, but it is a genuine health concern, especially for Louisiana travelers.

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The reason that Louisiana travelers could be singled out is this. The destinations affected by the travel threat are very popular with Louisiana tourists. The most popular international destinations for Louisiana travelers are Mexico and the Caribbean. Those destinations are not affected by this travel advisory, but they have advisories of their own.

The areas affected by the latest travel advisory include popular destinations in Europe, Asia, and Africa. But before you cancel your international itinerary, there is one simple step you can take. And you can do that in your own hometown and most likely at your family's healthcare provider.

What Is the Virus That is Causing Travel Restrictions in Europe?

The reason for the increased travel threat, as we mentioned, was a virus and the potential for the spread of that virus. The virus in question is not a new one; it's a virus that many of us thought had been eradicated, but apparently it has not. The virus in question is the polio virus.

Polio is a crippling disease that can be fatal. It affects the body's nervous system. Vaccinations are the best defense against the disease. Healthcare officials also say that the act of thorough and consistent handwashing can also help stave off the virus.

How Is the Polio Virus Spread? What is the Danger to Travelers?

The virus is spread in a variety of ways. It can get into the food supply. Or it can get into the water supply, especially in locales where sewage treatment and water treatment might not be up to the standards of the United States.

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But don't think all of the areas affected are "third world nations". Granted, there are quite a few countries in Africa and Asia that might qualify in that regard. The greater threat for Louisiana and American tourists might be exposure to the polio virus in more developed nations.

The current Level 2: Practice Enhanced Precautions edict includes the United Kingdom, Finland, Germany, Poland, and Spain. There are 20 nations on the threat list in Africa, five in the Eastern Mediterranean area, and one in the western Pacific.

What If You've Already Been Vaccinated Against Polio?

Many Americans have been vaccinated for polio. If you have, then you'll need to visit with your healthcare team and make sure your vaccination is up to date. If you've haven't been vaccinated against polio, you might consider having that done before you travel.

And if you are considering travel plans for the upcoming spring and summer, you might want to consider some of these "Bucket List" stops. You might be surprised at just how affordable some of those "exotic" destinations can be.