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Is it safe to travel by train with swine flu around?
Question
I am a 64 years old man who travels by train for 12 hours. With the scare about the swine flu I wonder whether I can go ahead with this travel. My son-in-law advises me not to travel by AC Sleeper class, which provides a closed environment and you do not know who all are travelling with you and their state of health. Please suggest.
Expert Answer
L
Dr LM NathAug 27, 2009
Consultant, Community Medicine,
New Delhi
New Delhi
That is a decision, which must be taken by you. If you are in good health I see no reason to postpone any work or other plans. Generally swine flu is a mild self-limiting illness that does not bother the patient. In fact the numerical majority of those that do get the infection probably do not know it - think that they have a seasonal cold or cough and get better by themselves in a few days.
However it is true that the chance of getting any airborne respiratory infection is much greater in an air-conditioned and closed compartment as in a plane, train or even a bus. Please also keep in mind that I do not anticipate an early end to this outbreak and life must go on.
However it is true that the chance of getting any airborne respiratory infection is much greater in an air-conditioned and closed compartment as in a plane, train or even a bus. Please also keep in mind that I do not anticipate an early end to this outbreak and life must go on.
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