Watch this page for ongoing updates of news concerning Avian Influenza and its effects on Honors Program travel plans.

 

The country of Turkey has come into the news spotlight recently because of the spread of incidents of A(H5N1) avian flu. Infections of this virus have been mostly identified in eastern provinces, near Lake Van, having apparently spread from Asia. But cases have also been suspected in provinces as far west as Bursa. Some cases have proven fatal. Others seem curiously symptom free. All thus far appear to have resulted from human contact with diseased birds. The epidemiological concern becomes more significant should the virus mutate and begin to spread from human-to-human contact. No evidence of such a development has to date been reported.

Travelers advisories have been issued for some countries, but the World Health Organization has thus far declined to see the incidents of the virus in Turkey as sufficient reason to issue any restrictions on travel to Turkey. We shall continue to make plans for the Hillsdale Honors trip in May, so long as the spread of the disease remains confined to contact with birds and so long as travel remains unrestricted. Our travel agency and tour guide in Turkey can both be relied upon to steer us to hotels, restaurants, and other areas where the risks of infection are minimal and controlled. Influenza viruses are destroyed by heat, so properly cooked poultry presents no dangers of causing the avian flu.

Here are links by which to follow the latest developments:

Recent Articles:

Articles preceding the 2006 trip: