The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported on the possibility of a human flu pandemic following outbreaks of Bird Flu, also known as Avian Flu and Avian Influenza H5N1, in parts of Asia. This factsheet explains why the WHO and other governmental and non-governmental organisations are concerned about the possibility of a pandemic and the measures taken by the FCO in response to these concerns.

You may already be aware of international concern about outbreaks of avian influenza, and fears that this might trigger a global human flu pandemic. The FCO has been planning for this eventuality for some time.

 

We recognise that it may be more difficult for British nationals living overseas to access information about the virus and the possibility of a future pandemic. This message is intended to provide you with this, point you in the direction of other sources of information and set out what your High Commission will and will not be able to do in the event of a pandemic.

 

The FCO fact-sheet: avian and pandemic flu is available on the FCO’s website here. This makes clear that the risk to humans from the H5N1 avian flu virus remains low, notwithstanding the publicity given to reported cases. Medical experts believe, however, that the virus could develop into one which could be passed between humans. If this were to happen, it could trigger a global flu pandemic.

 

In the event of a pandemic, the virus would spread very rapidly, affecting all countries within a matter of weeks. Given the likely disruption to transport, healthcare services (including the NHS in the UK) and other local services the level of consular assistance and the visa service which we can provide might be significantly reduced, not least because some of our own staff may be ill. In certain circumstances we may even have to close the High Commission temporarily to prevent the spread of infection.

 

We have put in place a flu contingency plan for the High Commission so that we can try to maintain a basic consular service during the crisis such as a telephone call centre offering advice to British nationals.

 

I would especially draw your attention to the section of the Fact-sheet headed "British Nationals living overseas". You will note that in the event of a pandemic, we have concluded that given the potential number of British nationals involved we will be unable to offer repatriation.

 

We will also not be able to offer diagnosis or medical treatment. This, rightly, should be the duty of your usual healthcare provider. It would be sensible for you to consider therefore whether you have access to anti-viral drugs and appropriate medical facilities should a pandemic occur. I suggest you visit the Department of Health website here, to view their pamphlet: Pandemic flu; important information for you and your family. This has been made available in GP surgeries in the UK and contains information about the implications of a pandemic. You should read this together with the FCO Factsheet. They give important information to help you consider your options and make any necessary preparations before a human flu pandemic occurs. They also give advice on sensible precautions you might take to reduce your risk of infection with an influenza virus. One point to bear in mind is the risk that the advent of a pandemic might trigger people to stockpile foodstuffs: you may want, over time, to consider gradually building up a modest stock e.g. of long-life items like tinned goods and pasta.

 

Further information can be found on the World Health Organisation, Department of Health and Health Protection Agency websites. Please contact the Vice Consul, andy.heseltine@fco.gov.uk, should you have any further queries about pandemic flu planning. We will disseminate further information through the Warden’s network and you should also monitor the FCO and High Commission websites for updates.

 

John Saville

British High Commissioner