post travel flu

Why You May Have Flu-like Symptoms After Traveling

Cold & Flu

Jan 20, 2022

If you’ve ever felt sick right after returning from a vacation, you may be wondering why you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms after traveling. Is it normal to get a cold after traveling? For a lot of individuals, travel can be an exhausting experience and can take a toll on the body. Whether you’re taking a road trip or flying on a plane to your destination, it is common for travelers to return home feeling sick after traveling for a period of time. Many patients are curious as to why this happens, and we are here to explain.

If you have returned home from a vacation with more than just a souvenir, here are common explanations for why you may feel flu-like symptoms after traveling. For tips and tricks on how to keep from getting sick while traveling , visit our blog.

Weakened immune system

We typically take vacations as a way for our bodies to relax and our immune system to rejuvenate itself. So how can a weekend getaway leave us feeling ill? As we mentioned earlier, traveling can be exhausting. You may be staying up later, drinking more alcohol, or eating increased quantities of food. You may even be doing more or less physical activity than you normally do at home! These changes, especially sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption, can lead to a weakened immune system that can cause you to have flu-like symptoms after traveling. 

Temperature changes

Traveling between different climates can confuse our bodies and make us more susceptible to illnesses because our immune systems aren’t sure how to react. Your body has to readjust to the new temperature before it can fight off any symptoms coming your way, allowing you to feel sick much faster. This can be combated with regulating your body temperature and, if necessary, some over-the-counter cold/flu medication.

Leisure sickness

This post-vacation fatigue can also be known as leisure sickness, a psychological effect where those who do not take time to relax regularly often fall ill on vacations or weekends. Leisure sickness, though not recognized by all psychologists, has similar symptoms to the flu including body aches, headaches, and fatigue. The best ways to combat these symptoms are very similar to our tips for staying healthy during flu season : keep an adequate sleep schedule, limit your alcohol intake, and practice healthy habits including exercise and handwashing.

Low humidity on airplanes

Airplanes can be a germaphobe’s worst nightmare. Being cramped next to strangers who may have brought a sickness aboard along with their carry-on bag can have you feeling gross after the flight. However, that’s likely not the reason you feel sick after traveling –– it’s generally due to the lack of humidity on the plane.

Low humidity can cause the nasal passages to dry out and cause irritation in the nose and throat. On top of that, bacteria and viruses can survive longer in low-humidity environments, making it harder for your body to fight off any infections you might catch aboard a plane. If you are traveling by plane, be sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. If necessary, wear a face-covering during your flight to keep others’ germs at bay.

Lack of hygiene and handwashing 

When you’re traveling, it’s likely you’ll come into contact with many different people, areas, and surfaces. As we mentioned earlier, your immune system may already be weakened from the effects of traveling, making you more susceptible to bacteria and viruses. If you do not take the proper precautions to wash your hands regularly, you can be exposing yourself to other peoples’ germs. If possible, bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you wherever you go and practice basic handwashing techniques as regularly as you can.

What to do if you feel sick after traveling

If you have returned home and are experiencing flu-like symptoms after traveling, follow these at-home remedies for how to care for yourself with the flu . It’s likely that your body will readjust within the next few days with a little TLC (tender, love, and care). Get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take it easy until you feel better.

However, if you notice these symptoms are either persisting or worsening, it would be a good idea to seek medical attention. For example, if you’re experiencing flu symptoms with severe stomach pain or feel you need an emergency IV for dehydration, head to the nearest emergency room for treatment. In the event that you have caught an illness, the medical staff will be able to care for you in a prompt manner.

Experiencing flu-like symptoms after traveling ? Complete Care is here to help.

Feeling sick after traveling can be a frustrating feeling, but try to remember that it’s normal to feel this way. Travel, even when done in the most cautious manner, can still be exhausting on the body. If you do find yourself in need of medical attention, the staff at Complete Care is here to help you feel better in no time. With low wait times and hospital-quality care, those flu-like symptoms after traveling will be a thing of the past.

With many ER locations all across Texas (including the Dallas/Fort Worth area) and Colorado, we are here in your time of need. We are open 24/7 for you and your family.

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Stages of Flu Recovery

Day-by-Day Guide to How Long the Flu Lasts

In general, the stages of flu recovery follow a relatively predictable timeline. Symptoms tend to develop one to two days after exposure to the influenza virus and last for between five to seven days. Older people or people with weakened immune systems may take longer to recover, while young, healthy people may take longer for symptoms to develop.

Understanding the stages of the flu—including the signs and symptoms that are likely to develop—can help you decide if you are recovering as you should. It can also help you figure out if you are still contagious and able to infect others.

This article describes the stages of flu from day 0 to day 8. You will also learn which flu symptoms occur at which stage, when you are no longer contagious, and what you can do to feel better as the flu progresses.

Verywell / Emily Roberts

Day 0 is the stage when you get the virus.

Infection occurs when a person with flu coughs, sneezes, or talks, propelling tiny droplets into the air that are breathed into your mouth or nose. It is also possible to get flu by touching contaminated surfaces and then your nose, eyes, or mouth.

At this stage, you will feel fine and be entirely unaware that you are about to get sick within the next day or two.

Even so, you are technically contagious on Day 0. The amount of virus in the mucosal tissues of the upper respiratory tract may not yet be at transmittable levels, but that can change with each passing hour as the virus starts to rapidly multiply in your nasal passages and throat.

Day 1 is when the body mounts an aggressive immune defense .

It does so by releasing proteins called antibodies that coordinate the immune attack and trigger inflammation . Inflammation helps neutralize the virus but also causes uncomfortable symptoms like heat, swelling, and pain.

At the start of Day 1, you may wake up feeling fine but progressively feel worse as the day goes on. By the end of the day, you may start developing the tell-tale early signs of flu, including:

• Sudden high fever

About Flu Antiviral Drugs

As soon as realize you have the flu, call your healthcare provider about antiviral drugs  that may help reduce the severity of the infection. This is especially true if you have asthma or are at high risk of flu complications .

Options include:

• Rapivab (peramivir)
• Relenza (zanamivir)
• Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate)
• Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil)

Flu antivirals are most effective when they are started within 48 hours of the first signs of infection.

Day 2 is when flu symptoms have fully taken hold, extending from the upper respiratory tract—including the nostrils, nasal cavity, mouth, pharynx (throat), and larynx (voice box)—to the trachea (windpipe).

On this day, you may not be able to get out of bed and will start to experience the classic array of flu symptoms, such as:

• High fever with chills
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches

How Long Should I Isolate Myself?

If you have flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you stay at home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical care or other necessities.

Day 3 is often described as the worse stage of the flu. This is the day when many symptoms are at their most intense.

Inflammation of the nasal passages and pharynx can cause severe congestion and sore throat. Persistent high fever can make it difficult to even lift your head.

The inflammation spreading from the trachea to the bronchi (the main airways of the lungs) will cause an intense, generally dry ( non-productive ) cough at this stage.

In small children especially, vomiting or diarrhea can occur.

When to Call 911

Call 911 or have someone rush you to the nearest emergency room if you develop the following signs of flu complications:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• Persistent dizziness
• Difficulty staying awake or being aroused from sleep
• Severe muscle pain
• Severe weakness or unsteadiness
• Fever or cough that improves but then returns or worsens
• Not urinating

Day 4 is generally the turning point in the infection. At this stage, the immune system will have gained control over the virus. You may start to feel a little better but probably too weak to do anything but sleep.

Your fever will likely have broken, and you shouldn't have as many body aches. Any congestion should start to loosen as well.

Even so, the aftermath of the infection can manifest with other symptoms.

The massive inflammation in the trachea and bronchi can cause the overproduction of mucus that begins to clog the lungs. When this happens, the dry cough may become more chesty and wet ( productive ) and get worse rather than better.

Even if your fever has broken, it is important to stay in bed and get plenty of fluids. By the end of the day, you may start to feel worse again and your fever may return.

Day 5 is the stage where active recovery begins.

While the infection itself will be mostly clear, there may still be some underlying inflammation, which is perfectly normal. This is because inflammation not only defends the body against infection but also starts the healing process by increasing blood flow to injured tissues.

At this stage, your fever should be gone. You should also have less congestion but will still likely have a cough. You may even find yourself coughing up phlegm (sputum) or becoming hoarse from all of the coughing.

If you are not starting to feel better by Day 5 or find that your symptoms are getting worse, call your healthcare provider.

Day 6 is when you should be well enough to get out of bed. There may still be some residual coughing, but breathing will be easier and the fever should be entirely gone.

While you may feel well enough to go back to work, the CDC advises against this until you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without taking any fever-reducing medications .

People with the flu may be contagious anywhere from one day before to seven days after the appearance of flu symptoms.

Day 7 is the stage when most people can confidently go out into public.

Even so, you should continue to take standard precautions to protect others around you. Cover your mouth while coughing and sneeze into a tissue or the crook of your elbow. Wash your hands immediately after, and disinfect any surfaces with a general-purpose cleaner.

With that said, Day 6 or 7 is the time when certain people start to develop acute bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchi). This may be caused when the lingering virus moves into the lungs. Less commonly, it is caused by a secondary infection in which bacteria enter airways that have been weakened by the flu.

While most cases of acute bronchitis are relatively mild, they can cause a lingering wet cough that persists for weeks. Severe cases should be seen by a healthcare provider.

Other people have been known to develop otitis media (a middle ear infection) after the flu, also typically mild.

Day 8 is typically the "all-clear" day for most people, including children. Most people should be well on their way to recovery and will likely no longer be contagious.

Even most older adults should be fine by this stage, though it may take them longer to fully recover. Don't be distressed if you feel out of sorts and have a lingering cough for another week. This is not uncommon.

If you are used to exercising regularly, you should be fine to work out again —just don't go overboard. Your body is still recovering and can tire easily.

Cold and Flu Healthcare Provider Discussion Guide

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Flu symptoms tend to develop one to two days after exposure to the virus and last for between five to seven days. Day 1 to Day 3 are characterized by the abrupt onset and worsening of symptoms. Day 5 to Day 6 is when most people start to feel notably better.

By Day 8, most people will have recovered and no longer be contagious. However, some may still have a lingering cough and fatigue.

A Word From Verywell

The flu can be particularly dangerous for older people, young children, and people with certain medical problems. If you are pregnant, any flu exposure or flu symptoms should be taken seriously. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are in any of these groups, and be sure to get the flu vaccine every year.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Pinkbook: influenza .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People at higher risk of flu complications .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. How flu spreads .

Kali AC, Thomas PG. Influenza virus-related critical illness: pathophysiology and epidemiology . Crit Care. 2019;23:258. doi:10.1186/s13054-019-2539-x

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Key facts about influenza (flu) .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What you should know about flu antiviral drugs .

Han A, Poon JL, Powers JH 3rd, Leidy NK, Yu R, Memoli MJ. Using the Influenza Patient-Reported Outcome (FLU-PRO) diary to evaluate symptoms of influenza viral infection in a healthy human challenge model . BMC Infect Dis . 2018;18(1):353. doi:10.1186/s12879-018-3220-8

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu: what to do if you get sick .

Soliman AM, Barreda DR. Acute inflammation in tissue healing . Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jan;24(1):641. doi:10.3390/ijms24010641

Morris DE, Clearly DW, Clarke SC. Secondary bacterial infections associated with influenza pandemics . Front Microbiol. 2017;8:1041. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2017.01041

By Kristina Herndon, RN Kristina Herndon, BSN, RN, CPN, has been working in healthcare since 2002. She specializes in pediatrics and disease and infection prevention.  

Feeling Sick After Vacation Is More Common than You Might Think

For most of us, a summer vacation is that long-awaited event we plan and dream about for months. A vacation is supposed to give us a chance to chill. To relax at the beach, experience nature in a national park or explore another culture. How ironic, then, that so many people need to take a vacation from their vacation!  

From flu-like symptoms to digestive tract upsets, feeling ill post-vacation affects up to 80 percent of returning travelers, says Dr. Ashima Oza, a primary care physician and an i nstructor in the Division of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. These illnesses—mostly mild viral infections—happen for a variety of reasons , including a weakened immune system, traveling between different climates, poor hygiene and air travel.  

A weakened immune system  

“When you travel,” says Dr. Oza, “ y our usual routines are disrupted. You may not be sleeping as well as you do at home, and y our eating habits change when you’ re away. You may be staying up later, consuming more alcohol and getting less exercise than usual. You’re also more likely to be in crowded places for prolonged periods, interacting with a more diverse population than you’re used to.” All of these factors can weaken your immune system and set the stage for getting sick.  

Traveling between different climates  

Abrupt temperature changes can take a toll . These rapid alternations between hot, warm and cool conditions force your body to adjust to different climates before it has a chance to process the information.   

Poor hygiene  

For the past few years, we’ve all learned about the importance of frequent hand-washing to protect against COVID-19. But some of us forget this basic practice when we’re away from home. H and-washing can also prevent us from catching other bugs , including those that cause colds and flu-like symptoms , well before flu season.  

Leisure sickness  

Though not universally recognized , leisure sickness is seen by its proponents as a psychological syndrome affecting people who don’t take the time to relax, even over the weekend. It is believed to cause post-travel flu-like symptoms , including body aches, headaches and fatigue .  

Air travel  

Airplanes can be breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses, from cramped conditions to the low humidity that characterizes the air circulating on board. Low humidity can dry out your nasal passages and irritate your throat. As a remedy, drink plenty of water and wear a mask during your flight to keep bacteria and viruses at bay.  

What are returning travelers’ most common complaints?  

“Diarrhea, fever and rash are the most commonly reported symptoms among post-vacation travelers,” Dr. Oza says. “But anecdotally, I see more respiratory infections in this group, possibly linked to the coronavirus pandemic.”   

How should I deal with feeling sick after my vacation?  

In most cases, she says, illness after travel is due to a viral infection that usually resolves in 5 to 7 days.  

“For mild symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion or a sore throat, supportive care is sufficient,” she says. “That includes acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief, warm fluids and rest. However, in the case of more severe infections that come with fever, chest pain or trouble breathing, get in touch with your doctor’s office or go to the Emergency Room.”  

Tips for getting back to normal  

• Get enough sleep  
• Limit alcohol consumption  
• Drink plenty of fluids  
• Take it easy until you feel better

Make an appointment with your primary care physician at Weill Cornell Medicine.

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Flu (Influenza)

During travel, after travel, more information.

The best way to reduce the risk of flu and possible flu complications is to get vaccinated each year, learn about special considerations for travel.

You may need a flu vaccine before travel at other times of the year, depending on your destination .

• In the Northern Hemisphere, flu season can begin as early as October and can last until April or May.
• In the temperate regions (areas with seasons) in the Southern Hemisphere, flu activity typically occurs from April to September.
• In the tropics, flu activity occurs throughout the year.
• Travelers who are part of large tourist groups that include people from other parts of the world, such as on cruise ships, may be at risk.
• People should get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before travel because it takes 2 weeks for immunity to develop after vaccination.
• Getting a flu vaccine is very important for people at higher risk of serious flu complications .
• If you already got your annual flu vaccine, you usually don't need to get vaccinated again during the same season.

Do not travel if you are sick

• If you are sick with flu-like symptoms, do not travel. Stay home until you are fever-free for at least 24 hours without using a fever-reducing medicine, such as acetaminophen.
• Fever (Not everyone with flu will have a fever.)
• Cough o Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children.

During your trip, follow local guidelines and practice healthy habits.

• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• Wash your hands often with soap and running water, especially after coughing or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and put the used tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.

What to do if you feel sick

Most people with flu will recover without needing medical care. However, if you have severe illness or are at risk of getting serious flu complications , seek medical care.

A U.S. consular officer can help you find local medical care in a foreign country. To contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate in the country you are visiting, call Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747 if calling from the U.S. or Canada, 00-1-202-501-4444 if calling from other countries. You can also visit the websites of U.S. Embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions to find the contact information for the local U.S. Embassy of the country you are visiting.

Follow all local health recommendations

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare provider and tell them about your travel. 

If you need medical care abroad, see Getting Health Care During Travel .

• CDC:  Travelers’ Health Website (General)
• CDC:  Traveler Information Center

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Doctor explains why people get 'flu' symptoms after travelling on a plane

A 'post-flight flu' is a common culprit when it comes to spoiling holidays, here is what causes the illness and how to reduce possible risks.

• 10:44, 18 AUG 2022

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Nobody wants to get sick while on holiday, but sometimes it is hard to avoid when cooped up in an airplane cabin .

The "post-flight flu" could leave people feeling unwell from the offset, which is why it's important to reduce potential risks .

Until recently, many airlines had mandatory mask rules on planes to help reduce the spread of Covid-19 , but regulations are being lifted which could lead to the spread of airborne illnesses.

Even a common cold could be enough to spoil a holiday , especially if you have a high temperature in already scorching heat.

Thankfully there are experts who have shared some top tips that help people avoid the dreaded holiday illness, reports the Mirror .

Dr Emma Hughes, in-house doctor at Pura Collagen , explains what causes "post-flight flu" and how to avoid it so you can enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

What is post-flight flu?

Feeling unwell after a flight can feel miserable, and the culprit? Low humidity in the airplane.

There is low moisture in the air which in turn can dry out your nasal passages, leading to flu-like symptoms.

The change in atmospheric pressure can mess with our body’s defences, leaving our immune system weakened and consequently, we are left feeling rotten.

In addition, due to the conditions, germs can hang around for days or even weeks in an airplane, even after previous passengers have departed.

This can leave us more susceptible to picking up something unpleasant, especially on a longer flight.

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How to prevent post-flight flu

1. Sanitise regularly

The best way to fight off any bacteria is to make sure that you sanitise regularly.

This includes wiping down any area that you may be sitting in, along with sanitising your hands to prevent touching and picking up any nasty germs.

2. Look after your immune system

Ensuring that your immune system is boosted before a flight will give you the best chance of avoiding any cold or flu.

This can be achieved through eating foods which are rich with nutrients, and taking supplements packed with goodness.

3. Stay hydrated

When the humidity drops in the airplane, your body uses water for a variety of important functions.

As a consequence, it is so easy to get dehydrated when travelling, which will leave you feeling rough post-flight.

It is therefore essential to make sure you stay hydrated when flying, carry a water bottle with you when you are travelling and ensure that it is continuously topped up.

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - sign up to our daily newsletter here .

• A little exercise every day offers is better than a big workout, new study finds
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Flu Prevention: Information for Travelers

Get more information on influenza for travelers from CDC's publication Health Information for International Travel (commonly called the Yellow Book).

The risk for exposure to flu during travel depends somewhat on the time of year and destination.

• In the Northern Hemisphere, the influenza (flu) season can begin as early as October and can last as late as April or May.
• In the temperate regions of the Southern Hemisphere, flu activity typically occurs during April – September.
• In the tropics, flu activity occurs throughout the year.
• Travelers in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres can be exposed to flu during months that fall outside of those listed above, especially when traveling as part of large tourist groups (e.g., on cruise ships) that include people from areas of the world where influenza viruses are circulating.

CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine yearly.

• Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine yearly, preferably in the fall before the U.S. flu season begins.

People who have not gotten a flu vaccine for the current season and are traveling to parts of the world where flu activity is ongoing should get a flu vaccine to protect themselves during their trip.

• This is particularly important for people at higher risk of flu-related complications .
• The flu vaccine used in the Northern Hemisphere usually protects against the main viruses that have been circulating in other parts of the world.

People should get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before travel because it takes 2 weeks for vaccine immunity to develop after vaccination.

• No information is available about the benefits of getting revaccinated before summer travel for those people who already were vaccinated during the preceding fall, so revaccination is not recommended.
• Keep in mind that flu vaccine manufactured for the upcoming or current season usually expires the following June. After June, flu vaccines are usually not available in the United States until the flu vaccine for the next season is produced and made available in the fall.
• Also, even if you receive the previous season’s vaccine before travel during the summer months, you should still receive the new flu vaccine that coming fall or winter.

More Information for Travelers

• If you are sick with signs or symptoms of flu-like illness, you should not travel . These include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults. It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.
• If you are sick, stay home for at least 24 hours until both are true: your symptoms are getting better overall, and you have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication). More information about how long people are contagious with flu and what to do if you did not have a fever is available at Flu: What To Do If You Get Sick | CDC .
• After these two criteria are met, there are some additional precautions that can be taken to protect others from respiratory illness. More information is available at About Preventing Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You’re Sick .

Travel Preparation

• Investigate current flu activity in your region of travel . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide frequently updated information on seasonal flu activity throughout the world .
• CDC: Travelers’ Health Website (General)
• CDC: Traveler Information Center

During and After Your Trip

During your trip, follow local guidelines and practice healthy habits.

• Pay attention to announcements from the local government in your travel destination and monitor the local health and security situation.
• Follow any movement restrictions and prevention recommendations.
• Wash your hands often with soap and running water, especially after coughing or sneezing. (Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer — containing at least 60% alcohol 1,2 — when soap is not available and hands are not visibly dirty.)
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and put the used tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands. Wearing a mask is an additional prevention strategy that you can choose to further protect yourself and others.
• Avoid close contact with sick people . You can improve air quality by bringing in fresh outside air, purifying indoor air, or gathering outdoors. Cleaner air can reduce the risk of exposure to viruses.

What to do if you feel sick

It is expected that most people infected with flu will recover without needing medical care. However, if you have severe illness or you are at higher risk for flu complications , seek medical care.

A U.S. consular officer can help you find local medical care in a foreign country. To contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country you are visiting, call Overseas Citizens Services at: 1-888-407-4747 if calling from the U.S. or Canada, 00-1-202-501-4444 if calling from other countries. You can also visit the websites of U.S. Embassies, Consulates, and Diplomatic Missions to find the contact information for the local U.S. Embassy of the country you are visiting.

Follow all local health recommendations.

Tips for After Your Trip

Closely monitor your health for 7 days. If you become ill with flu symptoms, seek medical attention if they are severe.

• Kampf G, Kramer A. Epidemiologic background of hand hygiene and evaluation of the most important agents for scrubs and rubs. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2004 Oct;17(4):863-93.
• Todd EC, Michaels BS, Holah J, Smith D, Greig JD, Bartleson CA. Outbreaks where food workers have been implicated in the spread of foodborne disease. Part 10. Alcohol-based antiseptics for hand disinfection and a comparison of their effectiveness with soaps. J Food Prot. 2010 Nov;73(11):2128-40.

*Many authorities use either 100 (37.8 degrees Celcius) or 100.4 F (38.0 degrees Celsius) as a cut-off for fever, but this number actually can range depending on factors such as the method of measurement and the age of the person, so other values for fever could be appropriate. CDC has public health recommendations that are based on the presence (or absence) of fever. What is meant by this is that the person’s temperature is not elevated beyond their norm.

Descargo de responsabilidad: Es posible que en este sitio encuentre algunos enlaces que le lleven a contenido disponible sólo en inglés. Además, el contenido que se ha traducido del inglés se actualiza a menudo , lo cual puede causar la aparición temporal de algunas partes en ese idioma hasta que se termine de traducir (generalmente en 24 horas). Llame al 1-800-CDC-INFO si tiene preguntas sobre la influenza estacional, cuyas respuestas no ha encontrado en este sitio. Agradecemos su paciencia.

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Flu Got You Down Even After You've Recovered?

What you need to know about post-viral fatigue and depression.

Flu Got You Down After Recovering?

Even after they've recovered from a nasty bout of the flu , some people are left feeling down in the dumps or seriously low on energy, and they don't understand why they haven't bounced back. It may not be just because they lost days or weeks of their regularly scheduled lives due to the illness. It may be that they have a little-known phenomenon called post-viral depression or post-viral fatigue syndrome.

"Post-viral fatigue and weakness seem to be happening more this year than in previous years, especially among people in their 50s and 60s who've had a bad viral infection, including the flu," notes infectious disease specialist Dr. David Goldberg, an assistant professor of medicine at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. "We’re also seeing reactive depression because they're not feeling as well as they’d like to and they want to get back to their regular routines."

[See: 10 Cold and Flu Myths Debunked .]

While they probably date back centuries, the links between viral illnesses and depression have only become more widely recognized and understood in recent decades. In fact, a study in a 2016 issue of the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that people who suffered a recent influenza infection (in the previous 30 to 180 days) had a 57 percent higher risk of new onset depression, compared to those who dodged the flu. Meanwhile, a review of the medical literature on the subject, published in a 2014 issue of Scientific Reports , found associations between depression and the Borna disease virus, herpes simplex virus 1, varicella-zoster virus and the Epstein-Barr virus, which can cause mononucleosis among other illnesses.

Live in a City? These Cold and Flu Prevention Tips Are for You

Frances Largeman-Roth Nov. 30, 2017

Exactly how a virus might trigger depression isn't fully understood, but there are theories. "A lot of these infections can lead to an inflammatory response in the body – cytokines [small proteins secreted by cells in the immune system] and other [inflammatory] chemicals are elevated to fight the infection," explains Dr. Madhukar Trivedi, director of the Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care at the UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. "There are a proportion of people who will experience fatigue, lethargy, psychomotor slowing, difficulty concentrating and sleep changes with this inflammatory response. It is the body’s way of making them slow down," he explains.

[Read: Are We Prepared for the Next Flu Pandemic? ]

Some people are more susceptible to post-viral symptoms of depression and fatigue than others. "People who are prone to depression or who’ve had it in the past are more likely to have these symptoms than those who aren't prone to depression," Trivedi notes. In these folks, even the flu shot can trigger these symptoms: A study conducted by Trivedi and his colleagues, published in the September 2017 issue of General Hospital Psychiatry, found that while adults who were given the influenza vaccine all experienced a downturn in their moods a day or two later, the negative mood effect was three times more pronounced among those with depression or anxiety .

The good news is most cases of post-viral depression and fatigue resolve naturally in a matter of days or weeks. To facilitate recovery in the meantime, it's important to get plenty of rest and sleep (seven to nine hours per night), Goldberg says. Engage in mild exercise during the day – "you may find that your stamina may not be what it used to be," he adds. And stick with a nutritious diet that contains lots of antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fish and seafood (which contain omega-3 fatty acids ).

[See: The Most Common Patient Complaints .]

A 1990 study in the journal Acta Neurologica Scandinavia examined the effects of taking high doses of essential fatty acids containing linoleic, gamma-linolenic, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids on post-viral fatigue syndrome in 63 adults who had been ill for one to three years with a viral infection. The researchers found that among those who took eight 500-mg capsules per day, 85 percent reported that their symptoms of fatigue, dizziness, muscle pain, poor concentration and depression had improved after three months, while only 17 percent of those on the placebo treatment felt better. (Check with your doctor to see if you might benefit from taking these supplements.)

If your symptoms of depression or fatigue "go on for more than a few weeks [after a viral illness], go to your doctor and get a blood test to make sure nothing else is going on," Goldberg advises. If you get a clean bill of health on the physical front and it turns out that the illness has triggered an episode of major depression, medication and/or therapy may help you reclaim a better state of mind and energy.

8 Secrets of People Who Don't Get Sick

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Home » Daily » Eyes, Ears, Nose & Throat » Getting Sick After Flying? How to Prevent That Cold or Nasty Sinus Infection

Getting Sick After Flying? How to Prevent That Cold or Nasty Sinus Infection

You're not alone if you feel as if you're getting sick after flying: around 20 percent of people on commercial flights develop symptoms of the common cold within one week of travel..

Researchers are finally starting to gather and publish more data about the health risks associated with airplane travel.

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With literally billions of people traveling by air every year now, researchers are finally starting to gather and publish more data about the health risks associated with airplane travel. In terms of the common cold, it is now well-accepted that acute respiratory infections are frequently experienced after air travel. So it’s no surprise when we find ourselves getting sick after flying.

Studies have found a high prevalence and wide array of respiratory viruses in people who have recently traveled.[2] Up to 20 percent of passengers may develop respiratory infections within one week after air travel and that flight attendants have significantly more respiratory infections than those who do not frequently fly.

FYI WHAT ABOUT MOTION SICKNESS?

Getting sick after traveling on a plane, train, or boat is one thing. Getting sick during travel is another. Motion sickness, though, is not uncommon; it can cause such symptoms as nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Read about how to treat (and prevent) the condition in our post “ Motion Sickness: If It Hits You on Long Trips, Consider These Prevention Steps .”

Can Traveling Make You Sick?

So why does flying on a plane increase our susceptibility to getting sick?

• Spread of exhaled infected droplets. Airline cabins have lots of people in a crowded space who are there for long “exposure times,” so the risk of infection via airborne transmission could be high—especially if one or more passengers are infected with an airborne infectious disease. Droplets exhaled by an infected passenger may contain infectious agents such influenza. In fact, droplets have been shown to spread through the air from a single cough, a single breath, or a few seconds of speaking. Exposure to the row in front and the row behind occurs within 30 seconds and extends to seven rows within minutes.[3]
• Low air pressure and oxygen compromise immune function. The conditions of low air pressure and low oxygen have been shown to impair certain immune system functions for a few days after long flights.[4] Researchers, to test how typical airplane air pressure and oxygen levels affect the immune system, studied the effects of a simulated 10-hour flight at an average cruising altitude of 8000 feet and then measured markers of immune system function in 52 healthy volunteers. They looked at blood samples before and on days 1, 4, and 7 after the flight. The researchers observed a number of immune system changes in the immediate days following the simulated flight. For instance, the subjects’ lymphocyte responses were decreased. Lymphocytes include T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. Lymphocytes are the primary type of white blood cells made by the immune system to combat viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. These immune changes, they concluded, “may contribute to an increased susceptibility to respiratory infections commonly seen after long-haul flights.”[4]

Venous Thrombosis : Another Health Concern Tied to Air Travel

The lower oxygen levels and prolonged sitting on long flights doesn’t just impair your immune system’s ability to fight infections, it also puts you at risk for deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Together, these two conditions make up the third most common cardiovascular disease after heart attack and stroke.

For persons who contract the conditions, they carry a high risk of death and permanent complications. Deep vein thrombosis is a condition in which a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain, but often occurs without any symptoms. Pulmonary embolism is a complication of deep vein thrombosis in which one or more arteries in your lungs becomes blocked by a blood clot that has traveled to your lungs from your leg.

While these conditions are of most concern for people with chronic respiratory diseases, doctors who specialize in travel medicine and lung diseases have been trying to spread the word for years that all travelers need to take precautions to avoid venous thromboembolism. This involves avoiding excess alcohol and caffeine-containing drinks, remaining mobile, and exercising during the flight.

For air travelers with a history of venous thromboembolism, obesity , heart disease , significant medical illness in previous six weeks, immobility, pregnancy, or estrogen therapy (hormone replacement  therapy or combined oral contraceptive pill), experts advise that in addition to the above advice, travelers wear compression stockings, avoid sedatives, and avoid sleeping for prolonged periods in abnormal positions. They also recommend a preventive dose of blood thinning medication for those at high risk of clots, such as those who have recently had a stroke, major surgery, or trauma.

How to Avoid Catching a Cold on a Plane: Three Strategies

To reduce your risk of getting a respiratory infection while on a flight, here are three specific actions you should take:

• Irrigate your nose (or your children’s) with a saline solution —both before and after the flight—by using a dropper or small squirt bottle. Nasal irrigation with a saline solution helps clean out at least some of the allergen, fungal, and viral pathogens from the nose and thus can help to reduce the risk of getting a sinus infection after flying. Keeping the nasal cavity moist in the dry atmosphere of an airplane cabin is also most beneficial.
• Drink lots of water throughout the flight.
• Take an herbal medicine with immune-boosting properties such as Echinacea for a week or two before the flight. Australian researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial to study whether a standardized Echinacea supplement is effective in the prevention of respiratory and other symptoms associated with long flights.[5] They gave 175 adults travelling for 15 to 25 hours Echinacea (root extract, standardized to 4.4 mg alkylamides) or placebo tablets starting 14 days before travel. The Echinacea group had lower respiratory symptom scores compared to placebo during travel. If you’re planning on traveling by air, you can give your own immune system a boost with Echinacea or other immune stimulating natural therapies starting at least two weeks before you travel. For more ideas on natural immune boosters for prevention of viral infections, such as Elderberry, Beta-Glucans, and Red Korean or American Ginseng, see our post “ 3 Immune System Supplements to Prevent the Flu this Winter .”

[1] AMA. 2002 Jul 24-31;288(4):483-6.

[2] Infect Dis. (2007) 195 (5): 675-679.

[3] Indoor Air. 2011 Aug;21(4):341-50.

[4] Aviat Space Environ Med. 2012 Apr;83(4):418-23.

[5] Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012; 2012: 417267.

Originally published in 2015, this post is regularly updated.

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As a service to our readers, University Health News offers a vast archive of free digital content. Please note the date published or last update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

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How to tell when you’re too sick to fly

Flu and cold seasons are officially upon us — complicating the worsening coronavirus pandemic.

In the past, you may have shrugged off mild symptoms like a sniffly nose or a tickle in your throat. But now, you can't board an airplane without certifying you don't have any symptoms of COVID-19, including a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, a cough and more.

Beyond what the airlines may specify, travelers should watch for a laundry list of symptoms specified by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which can appear between two and 14 days after exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19:

• Fever or chills
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Muscle or body aches
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting

Travelers need to be extremely mindful about even the most innocuous ailments now, as they could be an indication of COVID-19. But, even in normal times — or if the coronavirus isn't detected by a COVID-19 test — it's important to prioritize your health and the health of others. Here's why you should never board a flight if you're feeling sick.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

You have a fever

A good rule of thumb is to never fly when you have a fever, according to New York-based internist Dr. Frank Contacessa.

In addition to indicating a possible COVID-19 infection, a fever could also present itself if you have the flu .

"Having a fever, in general, will accelerate fluid loss from your body," Dr. Contacessa told TPG in 2019. "The very low humidity of the cabin air will dehydrate you even faster. Dehydration makes you feel even worse, increasing weakness, headaches, lightheadedness, etc."

You're vomiting

Sure, there might be vomit bags in the seatback pocket. But if you're throwing up before you get to the airport, it's a clear indication you need to delay your travels.

"If you have a fever over 100.4 degrees or are experiencing vomiting, there's a really good chance that you're contagious," Dr. Nate Favini, medical lead at Forward (a membership-based preventive care clinic), told TPG in 2019.

Related: It's flu season — here's how to avoid getting sick on a plane

You're short of breath

"The pressurized cabin air has less oxygen, which can make you feel short of breath if your airways are already inflamed from an infection," said Dr. Contacessa.

Dr. Favini added, "Flying is stressful on your body and your immune system in particular, so it can reduce your ability to fight off an infection. The air onboard is incredibly dry, and even healthy people end up extremely dehydrated at the end of their flight. You may end up being sicker or sick for longer because of flying while ill."

You could still be contagious

Back in 2019, before the coronavirus was a known threat, Dr. Favini told TPG that travelers experiencing any flu-like symptoms — including fever, cough, runny nose, congestion, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea — are still contagious.

Even if it's not the coronavirus making you ill, you can still infect someone up to 6 feet away .

Related: How to boost your immune system so you don't get sick while traveling

You have ear pain

Something as minor as ear pain might also be reason enough to avoid flying. You know how your ears sometimes pop during taking off or landing? Well, if you have ear pain and pressure, then that brief moment of discomfort can become severe.

"The changes in pressure during the flight can cause your eardrum to burst if you have an ear infection and it's not properly treated before you take off," said Dr. Favini.

Your heart is racing

Even if you don't have the sniffles or more obvious symptoms of being sick , there is one tell-tale warning sign that you absolutely shouldn't fly. If you do, you could experience a serious medical emergency.

"If you're experiencing chest pain or a racing heartbeat, especially if this is new or severe, don't get on your flight," said Dr. Favini. "This can be a sign of a life-threatening medical condition, and even if the pilot does land your flight, it might not be fast enough for you to get the help you need. The same goes for shortness of breath."

Related: The best travel insurance policies and providers

When you can fly again

OK, let's say you've determined you're too sick to fly. When can you reschedule your trip?

"If you do change your plans and postpone your trip, you should wait until you have been without a fever for at least 24 to 48 hours," said Dr. Contacessa back in 2019.

And, of course, if you've been diagnosed with COVID-19, most airlines will ask you to delay travel for at least 14 days after testing positive. Some will require even a longer period of time since your diagnosis.

The CDC says you can be around others 10 days after symptoms first appear and 24 hours without a fever, and any other symptoms have improved.

Additional reporting by Melanie Lieberman.

• Patient Care & Health Information
• Diseases & Conditions
• Traveler's diarrhea

Gastrointestinal tract

Your digestive tract stretches from your mouth to your anus. It includes the organs necessary to digest food, absorb nutrients and process waste.

Traveler's diarrhea is a digestive tract disorder that commonly causes loose stools and stomach cramps. It's caused by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. Fortunately, traveler's diarrhea usually isn't serious in most people — it's just unpleasant.

When you visit a place where the climate or sanitary practices are different from yours at home, you have an increased risk of developing traveler's diarrhea.

To reduce your risk of traveler's diarrhea, be careful about what you eat and drink while traveling. If you do develop traveler's diarrhea, chances are it will go away without treatment. However, it's a good idea to have doctor-approved medicines with you when you travel to high-risk areas. This way, you'll be prepared in case diarrhea gets severe or won't go away.

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Traveler's diarrhea may begin suddenly during your trip or shortly after you return home. Most people improve within 1 to 2 days without treatment and recover completely within a week. However, you can have multiple episodes of traveler's diarrhea during one trip.

The most common symptoms of traveler's diarrhea are:

• Suddenly passing three or more looser watery stools a day.
• An urgent need to pass stool.
• Stomach cramps.

Sometimes, people experience moderate to severe dehydration, ongoing vomiting, a high fever, bloody stools, or severe pain in the belly or rectum. If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms or if the diarrhea lasts longer than a few days, it's time to see a health care professional.

When to see a doctor

Traveler's diarrhea usually goes away on its own within several days. Symptoms may last longer and be more severe if it's caused by certain bacteria or parasites. In such cases, you may need prescription medicines to help you get better.

If you're an adult, see your doctor if:

• Your diarrhea lasts beyond two days.
• You become dehydrated.
• You have severe stomach or rectal pain.
• You have bloody or black stools.
• You have a fever above 102 F (39 C).

While traveling internationally, a local embassy or consulate may be able to help you find a well-regarded medical professional who speaks your language.

Be especially cautious with children because traveler's diarrhea can cause severe dehydration in a short time. Call a doctor if your child is sick and has any of the following symptoms:

• Ongoing vomiting.
• A fever of 102 F (39 C) or more.
• Bloody stools or severe diarrhea.
• Dry mouth or crying without tears.
• Signs of being unusually sleepy, drowsy or unresponsive.
• Decreased volume of urine, including fewer wet diapers in infants.

It's possible that traveler's diarrhea may stem from the stress of traveling or a change in diet. But usually infectious agents — such as bacteria, viruses or parasites — are to blame. You typically develop traveler's diarrhea after ingesting food or water contaminated with organisms from feces.

So why aren't natives of high-risk countries affected in the same way? Often their bodies have become used to the bacteria and have developed immunity to them.

Risk factors

Each year millions of international travelers experience traveler's diarrhea. High-risk destinations for traveler's diarrhea include areas of:

• Central America.
• South America.
• South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Traveling to Eastern Europe, South Africa, Central and East Asia, the Middle East, and a few Caribbean islands also poses some risk. However, your risk of traveler's diarrhea is generally low in Northern and Western Europe, Japan, Canada, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

Your chances of getting traveler's diarrhea are mostly determined by your destination. But certain groups of people have a greater risk of developing the condition. These include:

• Young adults. The condition is slightly more common in young adult tourists. Though the reasons why aren't clear, it's possible that young adults lack acquired immunity. They may also be more adventurous than older people in their travels and dietary choices, or they may be less careful about avoiding contaminated foods.
• People with weakened immune systems. A weakened immune system due to an underlying illness or immune-suppressing medicines such as corticosteroids increases risk of infections.
• People with diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe kidney, liver or heart disease. These conditions can leave you more prone to infection or increase your risk of a more-severe infection.
• People who take acid blockers or antacids. Acid in the stomach tends to destroy organisms, so a reduction in stomach acid may leave more opportunity for bacterial survival.
• People who travel during certain seasons. The risk of traveler's diarrhea varies by season in certain parts of the world. For example, risk is highest in South Asia during the hot months just before the monsoons.

Complications

Because you lose vital fluids, salts and minerals during a bout with traveler's diarrhea, you may become dehydrated, especially during the summer months. Dehydration is especially dangerous for children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Dehydration caused by diarrhea can cause serious complications, including organ damage, shock or coma. Symptoms of dehydration include a very dry mouth, intense thirst, little or no urination, dizziness, or extreme weakness.

Watch what you eat

The general rule of thumb when traveling to another country is this: Boil it, cook it, peel it or forget it. But it's still possible to get sick even if you follow these rules.

Other tips that may help decrease your risk of getting sick include:

• Don't consume food from street vendors.
• Don't consume unpasteurized milk and dairy products, including ice cream.
• Don't eat raw or undercooked meat, fish and shellfish.
• Don't eat moist food at room temperature, such as sauces and buffet offerings.
• Eat foods that are well cooked and served hot.
• Stick to fruits and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges and avocados. Stay away from salads and from fruits you can't peel, such as grapes and berries.
• Be aware that alcohol in a drink won't keep you safe from contaminated water or ice.

Don't drink the water

When visiting high-risk areas, keep the following tips in mind:

• Don't drink unsterilized water — from tap, well or stream. If you need to consume local water, boil it for three minutes. Let the water cool naturally and store it in a clean covered container.
• Don't use locally made ice cubes or drink mixed fruit juices made with tap water.
• Beware of sliced fruit that may have been washed in contaminated water.
• Use bottled or boiled water to mix baby formula.
• Order hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, and make sure they're steaming hot.
• Feel free to drink canned or bottled drinks in their original containers — including water, carbonated beverages, beer or wine — as long as you break the seals on the containers yourself. Wipe off any can or bottle before drinking or pouring.
• Use bottled water to brush your teeth.
• Don't swim in water that may be contaminated.
• Keep your mouth closed while showering.

If it's not possible to buy bottled water or boil your water, bring some means to purify water. Consider a water-filter pump with a microstrainer filter that can filter out small microorganisms.

You also can chemically disinfect water with iodine or chlorine. Iodine tends to be more effective, but is best reserved for short trips, as too much iodine can be harmful to your system. You can purchase water-disinfecting tablets containing chlorine, iodine tablets or crystals, or other disinfecting agents at camping stores and pharmacies. Be sure to follow the directions on the package.

Follow additional tips

Here are other ways to reduce your risk of traveler's diarrhea:

• Make sure dishes and utensils are clean and dry before using them.
• Wash your hands often and always before eating. If washing isn't possible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands before eating.
• Seek out food items that require little handling in preparation.
• Keep children from putting things — including their dirty hands — in their mouths. If possible, keep infants from crawling on dirty floors.
• Tie a colored ribbon around the bathroom faucet to remind you not to drink — or brush your teeth with — tap water.

Other preventive measures

Public health experts generally don't recommend taking antibiotics to prevent traveler's diarrhea, because doing so can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Antibiotics provide no protection against viruses and parasites, but they can give travelers a false sense of security about the risks of consuming local foods and beverages. They also can cause unpleasant side effects, such as skin rashes, skin reactions to the sun and vaginal yeast infections.

As a preventive measure, some doctors suggest taking bismuth subsalicylate, which has been shown to decrease the likelihood of diarrhea. However, don't take this medicine for longer than three weeks, and don't take it at all if you're pregnant or allergic to aspirin. Talk to your doctor before taking bismuth subsalicylate if you're taking certain medicines, such as anticoagulants.

Common harmless side effects of bismuth subsalicylate include a black-colored tongue and dark stools. In some cases, it can cause constipation, nausea and, rarely, ringing in your ears, called tinnitus.

• Feldman M, et al., eds. Infectious enteritis and proctocolitis. In: Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Management. 11th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 25, 2021.
• LaRocque R, et al. Travelers' diarrhea: Microbiology, epidemiology, and prevention. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 26, 2021.
• Ferri FF. Traveler diarrhea. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2023. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed April 28, 2023.
• Diarrhea. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea. Accessed April 27, 2023.
• Travelers' diarrhea. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/preparing-international-travelers/travelers-diarrhea. Accessed April 28, 2023.
• LaRocque R, et al. Travelers' diarrhea: Clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 26, 2021.
• Khanna S (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. May 29, 2021.
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Bird Flu Is Infecting More Mammals. What Does That Mean for Us?

H5N1, an avian flu virus, has killed tens of thousands of marine mammals, and infiltrated American livestock for the first time. Scientists are working quickly to assess how it is evolving and how much of a risk it poses to humans.

Checking a dead otter for bird flu infection last year on Chepeconde Beach in Peru. Credit... Sebastian Castaneda/Reuters

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By Apoorva Mandavilli and Emily Anthes

Apoorva Mandavilli first reported on bird flu in 2003. Emily Anthes has been writing about bird flu in wild animals since 2022.

• Published April 22, 2024 Updated April 24, 2024

In her three decades of working with elephant seals, Dr. Marcela Uhart had never seen anything like the scene on the beaches of Argentina’s Valdés Peninsula last October.

It was peak breeding season; the beach should have been teeming with harems of fertile females and enormous males battling one another for dominance. Instead, it was “just carcass upon carcass upon carcass,” recalled Dr. Uhart, who directs the Latin American wildlife health program at the University of California, Davis.

H5N1, one of the many viruses that cause bird flu, had already killed at least 24,000 South American sea lions along the continent’s coasts in less than a year. Now it had come for elephant seals.

Pups of all ages, from newborns to the fully weaned, lay dead or dying at the high-tide line. Sick pups lay listless, foam oozing from their mouths and noses.

Dr. Uhart called it “an image from hell.”

In the weeks that followed, she and a colleague — protected head to toe with gloves, gowns and masks, and periodically dousing themselves with bleach — carefully documented the devastation. Team members stood atop the nearby cliffs, assessing the toll with drones.

What they found was staggering: The virus had killed an estimated 17,400 seal pups , more than 95 percent of the colony’s young animals.

The catastrophe was the latest in a bird flu epidemic that has whipped around the world since 2020, prompting authorities on multiple continents to kill poultry and other birds by the millions. In the United States alone, more than 90 million birds have been culled in a futile attempt to deter the virus.

There has been no stopping H5N1. Avian flu viruses tend to be picky about their hosts, typically sticking to one kind of wild bird. But this one has rapidly infiltrated an astonishingly wide array of birds and animals, from squirrels and skunks to bottlenose dolphins, polar bears and, most recently, dairy cows.

“In my flu career, we have not seen a virus that expands its host range quite like this,” said Troy Sutton, a virologist who studies avian and human influenza viruses at Penn State University.

Newfoundland

St. John’s

South Carolina

St. Lawrence

Maine coast

Falkland Islands

South Georgia

Dec. 2021 The H5N1 bird flu virus is detected on a farm in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and in a sick wild gull nearby. Hundreds of birds on the farm died, and the rest were culled. It is the first detection of the virus in North America.

Migrating shorebirds may have carried the virus from Europe to Newfoundland through Iceland or Greenland. Or seabirds that congregate in the north Atlantic Ocean might have carried the virus ashore when they returned to Newfoundland to breed.

Jan. 2022 The virus is first detected in the United States, in wild birds in North and South Carolina.

Summer 2022 Hundreds of harbor seals and gray seals die along the coast of Maine and along the St. Lawrence Estuary in Quebec. The seals may have been infected by living near or eating sick and dead birds.

Fall 2022 After months moving west across the United States and Canada, the virus spreads south into Mexico and Colombia , most likely by migrating birds carrying it down the Pacific Flyway.

Nov. 2022 The virus reaches Peru, causes a mass die-off of pelicans along the coast, and begins to spread to other birds and marine mammals. Confirmed samples are shown as dots.

Early 2023 Thousands of sea lions die in Peru and Chile, the earliest known mass sea lion deaths from the virus. The virus continues spreading down the Chilean coast towards Cape Horn.

Late 2023 The virus rounds Cape Horn and moves north into Argentina and Uruguay, killing sea lions and seals and eventually reaching southern Brazil.

Oct. 2023 The virus also spreads south , entering the Antarctic region for the first time. Birds on the island of South Georgia are infected, followed in January by elephant seals and fur seals . Seabirds on the Falklands Islands are also infected.

The blow to sea mammals, and to dairy and poultry industries, is worrying enough. But a bigger concern, experts said, is what these developments portend: The virus is adapting to mammals, edging closer to spreading among people.

A human pandemic is by no means inevitable. So far at least, the changes in the virus do not signal that H5N1 can cause a pandemic, Dr. Sutton said.

Still, he said, “We really don’t know how to interpret this or what it means.”

Marine mortalities

A highly pathogenic strain of H5N1 was identified in 1996 in domestic waterfowl in China. The next year, 18 people in Hong Kong became infected with the virus, and six died. The virus then went silent, but it resurfaced in Hong Kong in 2003. Since then, it has caused dozens of outbreaks in poultry and affected more than 800 people who were in close contact with the birds.

All the while, it continued to evolve.

The version of H5N1 currently racing across the world emerged in Europe in 2020 and spread quickly to Africa and Asia. It killed scores of farmed birds, but unlike its predecessors it also spread widely among wild birds and into many other animals.

Most infections of mammals were probably “dead-end” cases: a fox, perhaps, that ate an infected bird and died without passing on the virus. But a few larger outbreaks suggested that H5N1 was capable of more.

The first clue came in the summer of 2022, when the virus killed hundreds of seals in New England and Quebec . A few months later, it infiltrated a mink farm in Spain .

In the mink, at least, the most likely explanation was that H5N1 had adapted to spread among the animals. The scale of the outbreaks in sea mammals in South America underscored that probability.

“Even intuitively, I would think that mammal-to-mammal transmission is very likely,” said Malik Peiris, a virologist and expert in bird flu at the University of Hong Kong.

After it was first detected in South America, in birds in Colombia in October 2022, the virus swept down the Pacific coast to Tierra del Fuego, the southernmost tip of the continent, and up the Atlantic coast.

Along the way, it killed hundreds of thousands of seabirds, and tens of thousands of sea lions, in Peru , Chile , Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. The sea lions behaved erratically, experiencing convulsions and paralysis; pregnant females miscarried their fetuses .

“What happened when the virus moved to South America we had never seen before,” Dr. Uhart said.

Exactly how and when the virus jumped to marine mammals is unclear, but the sea lions most likely came into close contact with infected birds or contaminated droppings. (Although fish make up the bulk of sea lions’ diet, they do sometimes eat birds.)

At some point, it’s likely the virus evolved to spread directly among the marine mammals: In Argentina, the sea lion deaths did not coincide with the mass mortality of wild birds.

“This could suggest that the infection source was not the infected birds,” said Dr. Pablo Plaza, a wildlife veterinarian at the National University of Comahue and National Scientific and Technical Research Council in Argentina.

It is not hard to imagine how the virus might disperse in these animals: Elephant seals and sea lions both breed in colonies, crowding together on beaches where they fight, mate and bark at one another. Elephant seals sneeze all day, dispersing large droplets of mucus each time they do.

It is difficult to prove exactly how and when the virus moved from one species to another. But genetic analysis supports the theory the marine mammals acquired their infections from one another, not birds. Samples of virus isolated from sea lions in Peru and Chile and from the elephant seals in Argentina all share about 15 mutations not seen in the birds; the same mutations were also present in a Chilean man who was infected last year.

There are numerous opportunities for H5N1 to jump from sea mammals into people. One sick male elephant seal that sat for a day and a half on a public beach in Argentina turned out to carry enormous amounts of virus. In Peru, scientists collected samples from sea lion carcasses that lay alongside families enjoying a beach day.

Scavenging animals, such as dogs, could also pick up the virus from an infected carcass and then spread it more broadly: “None of the wildlife exists in their little silos,” said Wendy Puryear, a virologist at Tufts University who studied the New England seal outbreaks.

In some South American countries, apart from a few carcasses that were buried, the rest have remained on the beaches, rotting and scavenged upon.

“How do you even scale up to remove 17,000 dead bodies out in the middle of nowhere, places where you can’t even bring down machinery, and humongous cliffs?” Dr. Uhart said.

A mutating pathogen

Flu viruses are adept at picking up new mutations; when two types of flu virus infect the same animal, they can shuffle their genetic material and generate new versions.

It is unclear exactly how, and how much, the H5N1 virus has changed since it first emerged. One study last year showed that after the virus entered the United States, it quickly mixed with other flu viruses circulating here and morphed into various versions — some mild, others causing severe neurological symptoms.

“So now after 20 years of reassortment, you have a virus that actually does extraordinary well in a whole variety of avian and mammal species,” said Vincent Munster, a virologist at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases who has studied the mutations needed for H5N1 to adapt to people.

Every new species that harbors the virus creates opportunities for H5N1 to continue to evolve, and to jump into people.

And the virus may stumble across mutations that no one has yet considered, allowing it to breach the species barrier. That is what happened in the 2009 swine flu outbreak.

That virus did not have the mutations thought to be needed to infect people easily. Instead, “it had these other mutations that no one knew about or thought about before then,” said Louise Moncla, an evolutionary biologist who studies avian influenza at the University of Pennsylvania.

Still, even if the virus jumps to people, “we may not see the level of mortality that we’re really concerned about,” said Seema Lakdawala, a virologist at Emory University. “Preexisting immunity to seasonal flu strains will provide some protection from severe disease.”

What happens next

The U.S. is prepared for an influenza pandemic, with some stockpiled vaccines and antivirals, but its efforts at monitoring the virus may not pick it up quickly enough to deploy those tools.

It took several weeks before farmers, and then officials, knew that H5N1 was circulating in dairy cows.

The dairy farm outbreak has resulted in only one mild human infection, but farms are fertile ground for the virus to jump species — from cat to cow to pig and human, in any order.

Many scientists worry in particular about pigs, which are susceptible to both human and avian flu strains, providing the perfect mixing bowl for viruses to swap genes. Pigs are slaughtered when very young, and newer generations, with no prior exposure to flu, are particularly vulnerable to infections.

So far, H5N1 does not seem adept at infecting pigs, but that could change as it acquires new mutations.

“I never let my kids go to a state fair or animal farm, I’m one of those parents,” Dr. Lakdawala said. “And it’s mostly because I know that the number of interactions that we increase with animals, the more opportunities there are.”

Should H5N1 adapt to people, federal officials will need to work together and with their international counterparts. Nationalism, competition and bureaucracy can all slow down the exchange of information that is crucial in a developing outbreak.

In some ways, the current spread among dairy cows is an opportunity to practice the drill, said Rick Bright, the chief executive of Bright Global Health, a consulting company that focuses on improving responses to public health emergencies. But the U.S. Agriculture Department has been too limited in its approach to testing cows, and has not been as timely and transparent with its findings as it should have been, he said.

On Wednesday, the department ordered that dairy cows moving across state lines to be tested for influenza.

Dr. Rosemary Sifford, the department’s chief veterinarian, said the staff there were working hard to share information as quickly as they can. “This is considered an emerging disease,” she said.

Government leaders are typically cautious, wanting to see more data. But “given the rapid speed at which this can spread and the devastating illness that it can cause if our leaders are hesitant and don’t pull the right triggers at the right time, we will be caught flat-footed once again,” Dr. Bright said.

“If we don’t give it the panic but we give it the respect and due diligence,” he added, alluding to the virus, “I believe we can manage it.”

Apoorva Mandavilli is a reporter focused on science and global health. She was a part of the team that won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for coverage of the pandemic. More about Apoorva Mandavilli

Emily Anthes is a science reporter, writing primarily about animal health and science. She also covered the coronavirus pandemic. More about Emily Anthes

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Ay, car-rumba.

A new study shows the cost of travel has skyrocketed since 2019 — with rental car prices far and away the most inflated, compared to pre-COVID.

NerdWallet found that the expense of having your own wheels away from home was a whopping 39.3% higher in March 2024 versus five years ago, in March 2019 — and that’s after an 8.8% decline from March 2023.

The research revealed that Chicago’s O’Hare was the priciest airport for car rentals, with an eye-watering average weekly rate of $671.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport came in second at $598, then Las Vegas’ Harry Reid Airport at $588. Los Angeles International Airport was priced at $568 — just slightly above Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s $566.

Researchers found Enterprise to be the cheapest and National to be the most expensive.

They also noted that booking in advance was more costly than at the last minute, when rental car companies are now sometimes found offering better deals.

Although rental cars saw the steepest increase, there are plenty of other culprits keeping the cost of hitting the road higher than normal.

Restaurant prices have soared for example, by 29.3% between 2019 to 2024. During the past year alone, they’ve risen 4.2%.

Tickets to plays, movies, and concerts also shot up 22.6% — 5% more than a year ago.

Hotel rooms are far from immune.

Over the five-year period, lodging costs increased by 16.3% . They have risen by 6.7% between February and March of this year.

The biggest shock, however, is that airfare has only increased 2.6% during the past five years.

It is currently down 7.1% from 2023. American and Southwest both announced losses in the first quarter of 2024; Southwest said it will limit hiring and pull out of four airports as a result.

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Colorado News | Bird flu confirmed in Colorado dairy cows as…

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Colorado news | bird flu confirmed in colorado dairy cows as outbreak spreads, this is the first time avian flu has been diagnosed in colorado cattle, usda says.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture found bird flu in northeast Colorado dairy cows this week, according to state officials.

This is the first time avian flu has been diagnosed in Colorado cattle, the state Department of Agriculture said in its announcement.

Bird flu in dairy cows has been confirmed in eight other states, the USDA said. Those include Idaho, South Dakota, Kansas, New Mexico, Texas, Michigan, Ohio and North Carolina.

On Monday, the Colorado State Veterinarian’s Office was notified of a dairy herd exhibiting symptoms consistent with bird flu. Signs of avian flu in dairy cows include decreased eating, decreased milk production and abnormal colostrum-like milk. Sick cattle appear to recover after supportive care, state officials said.

Samples submitted to the Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory tested presumptive positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, on Wednesday and were confirmed by the USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory on Thursday, the state’s news release said.

“We continue to see this ongoing HPAI outbreak evolve and over the last month have seen transmission of the virus now move into dairy cattle,” said Colorado State Veterinarian Maggie Baldwin in a statement. “While we don’t yet completely understand the mechanism of transmission of this virus, we do know that it appears to be spreading from cow to cow and between herds. It is critically important that producers implement enhanced biosecurity measures to mitigate the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza.”

A Michigan poultry facility and a Texas egg producer have both reported avian flu outbreaks, according to reporting from the Associated Press . Virus developments include infected dairy cows and the first known instance of a human contracting bird flu from a mammal, the AP reported

Colorado’s avian flu response webpage will be updated with the state’s plans for the ongoing outbreak. The state Department of Agriculture is working with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to provide disease control guidance for people exposed in the outbreak, the news release said.

Colorado has 106 dairies and about 200,000 dairy cows.

At this time, there is no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply because milk is pasteurized before entering the market, according to the USDA and FDA.

Despite health officials saying the risk to the public remains low, people are increasingly concerned in part because the largest producer of fresh eggs in the nation reported an outbreak, the AP reported.

Two human cases of bird flu have been reported in the United States: One in Colorado in 2022 and another in Texas in 2024 . Both people had minimal symptoms following exposure to infected animals, the news release said.

“Both dairy and poultry producers should practice enhanced biosecurity and be vigilant about monitoring for and controlling disease in their herds and flocks,” the news release read. “Additional detailed actions can be found in the USDA’s livestock recommendations document , which will be updated as additional information is made available.”

For more information, people can visit the USDA’s website .

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U.S. requires more dairy cows to be tested for bird flu as concerns grow

Dairy cows must be tested for bird flu before moving across state lines, under a federal order issued Wednesday, as evidence mounts that the virus is more widespread than feared among cows in the United States.

Biden administration officials said the move is meant to contain transmission of the virus known as H5N1 and to reduce the threat to livestock, but they maintained that the risk to humans remains low.

The trajectory of the outbreak has drawn public health concerns because it marks the first time bird flu has moved to cows. The virus is far more disruptive to the poultry industry, killing chickens and forcing mass culling of flocks. It generally causes mild or no sickness in cows. But greater transmission in mammals, particularly one regularly exposed to people, increases the risk that the virus could evolve to the point that it spreads more easily in humans.

An order issued by the U.S. Agriculture Department that takes effect Monday requires every lactating dairy cow to be tested before moving across state lines. Cows carrying the virus would have to wait 30 days and test negative before being moved, officials said. Positive test results would trigger additional requirements for herd owners to disclose information, including the movement of animals, to aid epidemiologic investigations, and for laboratories and state veterinarians to report cases to the USDA.

“Requiring positive test reporting will help USDA better understand this disease and testing before interstate movement will limit the spread of the virus,” Mike Watson, administrator of the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, told reporters.

“This is an evolving situation, and we are treating it seriously and with urgency,” he said.

The testing mandate could help overcome reluctance from some milk producers to allow testing in their herds, Watson said. The cost of mandatory testing would be reimbursed by the agency. Watson said federal officials are also working with state counterparts to potentially expand testing of cows when they are moved within a state.

The nation has roughly 8 million lactating cows, according to estimates , though it’s unclear how often they are moved across state lines. Watson did not provide an estimate for how many cows would be tested under the new order, though he described it as a “significant number.” He said labs have enough capacity to handle the increase and turn around results within days.

The National Milk Producers Federation, an industry group, called the USDA’s testing order “appropriate.”

“Dairy farmers stand ready to take a proactive approach to ensuring that we better understand the spread of the virus, do what we can to limit that spread, and ensure the health of our animals and workers,” Gregg Doud, the group’s president and CEO, said in a statement.

Voluntary testing protocols for cows, limited until now to those with symptoms, has drawn criticism from public health experts. They say the true toll of the virus is probably larger than official tallies confirming avian flu in dairy cows in eight states , as well as one human case in a Texas farmworker . That person has recovered.

“We are only really starting to understand the extent of it now,” said Angela Rasmussen, principal research scientist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. “The testing requirements are very warranted because certainly there are economic incentives for producers to not test.”

Testing uncovered fragments of the virus in milk sold at grocery stores, another sign that the virus is more prevalent in cows than official tallies show, including in asymptomatic cows. Federal officials stressed that existing research suggests pasteurization of milk and other milk products such as ice cream and cheese renders the virus unable to infect humans. Additional reviews, including the virus’s presence in other dairy products such as cream, are underway, with some results expected within days or weeks.

“We have seen nothing that would change our assessment that the commercial milk supply is safe,” said Don Prater, acting director of the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition at the Food and Drug Administration. He also cautioned, “We also know that assessments can change as we learn more, and we will be transparent about any changes based on emerging data.”

Public health experts have also faulted the Biden administration for not sharing more data about the outbreak, warning that it could hinder scientific research and the global response.

Federal officials shared more than 200 genetic sequences of the virus taken from different animals, which scientists criticized for lacking metadata that provides crucial context, such as the location and timing of the specimen collection. Scientists who analyzed the sequencing said the available information strongly suggests that the spread of H5N1 to cows stems from a single spillover event from birds in late 2023.

“The evolutionary tree resoundingly indicates that this outbreak had a single origin and that it had been circulating under our noses for months before it was noticed,” said Michael Worobey, an evolutionary virologist at the University of Arizona who led the analysis. “It shows there are massive gaps in the system, and we need to do much better on the scientific side.”

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Latest update

We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Russia due to the security situation and the impacts of the military conflict with Ukraine.

Russia (PDF 2.04 MB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

All emergency services, fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Do not travel to Russia. 

Do not travel to Russia due to the dangerous security situation and the impacts of the military conflict with Ukraine. 

Do not travel to North Caucasus.

Do not travel to North Caucasus due to the high threat of terrorism and political unrest.

See Safety .

• There's an ongoing threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur on or around seasonal, festive, or religious events in public places and could include popular tourist sites. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. Always be alert to possible threats and have a clear exit plan. On 23 March, there was a terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall in Moscow, resulting in significant loss of life.
• Security incidents, such as drone attacks and explosions, often occur in southern and western areas of Russia, including regions bordering Ukraine, Moscow, and St Petersburg. This can cause significant flight delays and travel disruption. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.
• The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may become disrupted at short notice, so have an alternate exit plan. 
• If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Russia.
• There are limited transportation options, restrictions on financial transactions and possible shortages of essential products and services. 
• The Russian Government has introduced a 'medium response level' in several regions of Russia, including Krasnodar, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov and a 'heightened preparedness level' in the remainder of the Central and Southern Federal districts. A basic readiness level covers the rest of Russia. There may be an increase in security personnel and installations. Security measures or restrictions may be introduced with little to no notice. Monitor the media for developments. 
• Russian authorities have made strong, negative comments in relation to Western countries. Local authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia in reaction to perceived support for Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Non-participating bystanders can draw scrutiny from security forces and have been detained. Remain vigilant, avoid protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.
• Continue to follow the advice on Smartraveller. If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Laws about the import and use of medicines are strict. You need a doctor's letter and a notarised translation confirming your need for each medication that contains restricted substances. Contact the  Embassy of Russia  for details.
• Rabies and tick-borne encephalitis are on the rise. Ticks are common from April to October. Take care when travelling through forests.
• Infectious diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis, diphtheria, measles and tuberculosis are a risk. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water.
• Public medical facilities in Russian cities are below Australian standards and basic in rural areas.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government won't be able to intervene if you're subjected to mobilisation.
• Conscription occurs regularly in Russia. The Government may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. From 1 January 2024, the maximum age of conscription will change from 27 to 30 years old. Russian authorities have also passed laws allowing for the draft notice to be serviced to the conscripts online, preventing conscripts from leaving the country once the notice is registered and sent.
• Russia has passed laws that severely inhibit free speech related to the current situation, imposing severe restrictions on the publishing and distribution of information related to the Russian armed forces and any military operations. Foreign journalists and other media workers in Russia may face considerable risks, including arrest and imprisonment. Don't share or publish information related to the current events in Ukraine and Russia.
• Russian authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.
• Don't use or carry any illegal drugs. Penalties are severe. Carry your passport, visa and migration card at all times. Authorities won't accept copies.
• Don't take photos of military places or sensitive areas, such as passport control. It's also illegal to use commercial film, television, camera equipment or drones in public without permission. Hand-held video cameras are legal.
• Russia doesn't recognise dual nationals. We can only provide limited consular assistance to dual nationals who are arrested or detained. You'll need a valid Russian passport to leave.
• Same-sex relationships are technically legal but are not widely accepted. Violence against members of the LGBTI community occurs. Russia's parliament passed a law banning "LGBT propaganda", criminalising any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". The promotion of LGBTI issues may be considered illegal by local authorities, and activists may face consequences under Russian law. In July 2023, the Russian President signed a decree banning gender changes without medical requirements. The law also annuls marriages in which one person "changed gender" and prevents transgender couples from adopting children.
• Law enforcement agencies in Russia cooperate closely with agencies in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Have an alternate exit plan.
• Confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating if you plan to depart Russia. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe are often disrupted due to measures taken in response to military action in Ukraine. Several Russian airports are now closed to the public, disrupting internal flights to and from Moscow and other cities. The train and bus service between St Petersburg and Helsinki is suspended. 
• If you're travelling through an overland border crossing into  Estonia  or  Latvia , confirm the entry requirements for your destination before arrival. Finland has closed border crossings with Russia indefinitely and maritime borders will close on 15 April. Latvia introduced an entry ban on vehicles registered in Russia in September 2023. There's a ban on vehicles crossing into/from Estonia at the Ivangorod- Narva crossing. Train service is also suspended. Entry and exit on foot will still be allowed. Additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers.
• Russian airlines and railways may be affected by shortages of parts and essential technical components for their fleets, affecting maintenance and safety standards. Research your railway and aviation provider before choosing their services. The International Civil Aviation Organisation has issued a Significant Safety Concern (or 'red flag') notice regarding the capacity of Russian airlines to oversee safety. 
• If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Russia, expect thorough security checks at the border, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices. Entry requirements can change at short notice. Contact your airline or the nearest embassy or consulate of Russia to confirm entry requirements.
• Bank cards issued outside of Russia don't work in Russia. You won't be able to access funds from these cards once you enter Russia. You may not be able to exchange Australian dollars as well as old, worn, or damaged US dollar and euro banknotes into Russian rubles in Russia. Ensure you have enough money to cover your stay.
• Dual nationals can't leave Russia without a valid Russian passport. If your Russian passport expires while you're in Russia or if you enter Russia using a repatriation certificate, you'll need to get a new Russian passport before you leave. This can take up to 3 months. The Australian Government won't be able to intervene or fast-track this process.  

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Moscow. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited due to the evolving security situation. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Russia.
• The Australian Consulate in St Petersburg can provide limited help.
• If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Russia. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur on or around seasonal, festive, or religious events in public places and could include popular tourist sites. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. Always be alert to possible threats and have a clear exit plan. Russia has seen a number of terrorist attacks which have caused large casualty numbers. On 23 March, there was a terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall in Moscow, resulting in significant loss of life. Russia's aviation has also been targeted. 

Russian authorities continue to announce arrests and the disruption of planned attacks.

Terrorists have attacked other European cities. Targets have included:

• places of worship
• government buildings
• shopping areas
• tourist sites
• restaurants
• entertainment venues
• transportation hubs
• major events which attract large crowds

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• be extra cautious around possible terrorist targets
• always have a clear exit plan
• report anything suspicious to the police
• monitor the media for any new threats
• take official warnings seriously and follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

North Caucasus

There's a high threat of terrorism in parts of the North Caucasus, including:

• North Ossetia
• the south-eastern part of Stavropol bordering Chechnya
• Karbardino-Balkaria
• Karachay-Cherkessia

Terrorist attacks continue to occur in Chechnya. Several people have been killed and injured.

Our ability to provide consular assistance to Australians  in those parts of the North Caucasus  is limited.

If, despite our advice, you travel to these parts of the North Caucasus:

• monitor local conditions via media and travel operators
• arrange personal security measures

Georgia-Russia border

The Georgia-Russia border area is volatile because of tensions in Georgia.

If, despite our advice, you travel in the border region, read our  Georgia travel advice .

Security situation

Security incidents, such as drone attacks and explosions, often occur in southern and western areas of Russia, including regions bordering Ukraine, Moscow, and St Petersburg. This can cause significant flight delays and flight cancellations. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.

The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may become disrupted at short notice. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family.

The Russian Government has introduced a 'medium response level' in several regions of Russia, including Krasnodar, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov and a 'heightened preparedness level' in the remainder of the Central and Southern Federal districts. A basic readiness level has been introduced in the rest of Russia. There may be an increase in security personnel and installations. Security measures or restrictions may be introduced with little to no notice. Monitor the media for developments.

Ukraine border areas and Crimea

The Russia-Ukraine border is volatile due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Security incidents regularly occur in Belgorod, Bryansk, Kursk and other regions of Russia bordering Ukraine, including explosions and large fires. The security situation in the region could deteriorate at short notice. You shouldn't travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.

We currently advise you do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. Read the  Ukraine travel advice   for more information.

The Australian Government doesn't recognise Russia's claimed annexation of the Ukrainian region of Crimea or its other territorial claims in occupied Ukraine.

Leaving Russia

Where it's safe to do so, you should leave Russia immediately. Use your judgment to decide the best time and safest means of exit. 

Transport routes may be disrupted. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel. Make sure you have payment options that will work during your journey and at your destination. 

Read your destination's travel advice to ensure you meet the entry requirements. These may differ when entering by road, rail or air. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe have been impacted by measures taken in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Check with your airline or travel agent for current flight availability. Any travel options you pursue are at your own risk. See ' Travel '

For more information on entry requirements for countries bordering Russia, read the travel advice:

The European Union also has a website with  information on travel restrictions for people seeking to enter member states .

If you decide to stay in Russia:

• follow the instructions of authorities
• ensure your travel documents are up-to-date, and keep your passport and other travel documentation safe
• contact your family and friends in Australia so they're aware of your location and situation
• keep up to date with developments on the security situation, monitor reputable media, and regularly check our travel advice and  social media
• review your personal security plans and make contingency plans to leave as soon as you judge it safe to do so
• always be alert and aware of your surroundings
• avoid large gatherings and areas with groups of fighters and military equipment.

Civil unrest and political tension

Russia's parliament has passed laws that severely restrict free speech related to the current situation. Foreign journalists and other media workers in Russia may face considerable risks, including arrest and imprisonment.

While the effects of this law are still unclear, you may be detained or fined for:

• sharing or publishing information that local authorities deem false
• sharing or publishing information that may be detrimental to the armed forces
• calling for, sharing or publishing speech in support of sanctions against Russia

You should not:

• share or publish information related to the current events in Ukraine and Russia
• participate in demonstrations and large gatherings

Russian authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia due to perceived support for Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Russian authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.

Avoid commenting publicly on political developments.

Anti-war and anti-mobilisation protests have taken place in cities across Russia over the invasion of Ukraine. Many protesters have been arrested.

Unsanctioned protests are illegal, and you can be arrested if you participate. Remain vigilant and avoid rallies, protests, demonstrations and other large public gatherings, as they can turn violent, and you may be arrested.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Theft and assault

Petty crime, pickpocketing and mugging is common. Groups of children sometimes commit crimes, too.

Hot spots for crime include:

• the Izmailovsky Market
• other tourist attractions
• the Moscow and St Petersburg metros

Thieves often steal passports. They target travellers in  robberies  and  assaults , particularly in large cities.

To protect yourself from theft and assault:

• keep your personal belongings close, particularly in tourist areas
• be aware of your security in public places, particularly at night
• monitor local media on crime
• racially or religiously motivated assaults may occur throughout Russia.

Drink spiking

Criminals may drug and rob travellers at nightclubs and bars. Sometimes this happens after people accept offers of food, drink or transportation from strangers.

To protect yourself from spiking-related crime:

• never accept food or drinks from strangers
• don't leave drinks unattended
• leave your drink if you're not sure it's safe
• stick with people you trust in bars, nightclubs and taxis
• don't accept offers of transport from strangers
• Partying safely

Using taxis

People have reported extortion and robbery while taking unauthorised taxis.

To protect yourself from robbery while travelling in taxis:

• only use official taxi companies
• always book your taxi in advance
• don't flag down taxis on the street
• don't share taxis with strangers
• always negotiate and confirm the fare before you get in a taxi

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud is common.

To protect yourself from fraud:

• only exchange currency at banks
• keep your credit card in sight during transactions
• only use ATMs inside banks and during business hours
• always hide your PIN

Other scams

Criminals may try to cheat you by changing money in the street or a bank queue.

Some Australians have been victims of fraud by bogus internet friendship, dating and marriage schemes operating from Russia.

These are large-scale, well-organised  scams .

Criminals arrange to meet people through internet dating schemes or chat rooms. After getting to know each other, the criminal asks the Australian to send money so they can travel to Australia. However, the relationship ends after the money has been received, and the funds can't be recovered.

Be wary of people you meet through internet dating schemes or chat rooms.

People have also reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by police and other local officials.

If you suspect you're being extorted by a police officer or other local official, offer to walk with them to the nearest police station. Once there, you can check their identity and their demands.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping  is common in parts of the Northern Caucasus.

It can be for:

• political purposes
• retribution

Foreigners have been targeted in the past.

If, despite the risks, you travel to an area where there is a particular threat of kidnapping:

• get professional security advice

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Climate and natural disasters

Severe weather  during winter can disrupt travel in Russia.

To protect yourself from accidents caused by severe weather:

• take care when walking in snowy, icy or windy conditions
• take care when driving
• use appropriate driving equipment, such as winter tyres or chains
• monitor the media and other sources for updates

If you're delayed, contact local authorities about a visa extension if required.

In April, severe flooding affected multiple settlements across Russia in the South Urals region east of Moscow, in Western Siberia and near the Volga River. 

Snow and ice

People are injured or killed yearly in wind, snow and ice-related accidents. These include:

• traffic accidents
• collapsed roofs and snow falling from roofs 
• falling debris 
• prolonged exposure to extreme cold

Slipping on ice can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, back injuries or paralysis.

During summer, forest and peat  fires  can occur in Russia, including in the Moscow region.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

The North Caucasus and the far eastern region of Russia can experience  earthquakes .

Tsunamis  are common in all oceanic regions of the world.

To protect yourself from natural disasters, take official warnings seriously.

If a  natural disaster  occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

Get updates on major disasters from the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Travel insurance

Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Russia. Do not travel to Russia. See ' Safety '

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Do not travel to Russia. If, despite our advice, you travel to Russia, consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice  (World Health Organization)
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. 

Russia has imposed temporary restrictions on exporting certain categories of goods, including foreign-made medical products. 

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Russia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Russia has strict laws about the import and use of medications. This includes medications that are available over the counter in Australia, such as cold and flu tablets.

When you arrive in Russia, you must present a doctor's letter to authorities confirming your need for each medication. This is the case if your medications contain the following:

• barbiturate
• sibutramine
• anabolic steroids
• androgens and other sex hormones
• analgesic, such as tramadol
• psychostimulants
• other restricted substances

The letter must:

• contain a description of the medication, including the chemical composition
• describe the required dosage
• explain the underlying medical condition
• confirm the medicine is for personal use only
• be signed by your treating doctor

You must also have a notarised translation of the letter into Russian.

Before you leave Australia, contact the Embassy of Russia for the latest rules for bringing medicines into Russia.

• Russian Government website

Health risks

Tick-borne diseases.

Tick-borne encephalitis  (World Health Organization) and other tick-borne diseases are a risk, especially if you travel through forested areas.

Ticks are common in rural areas from spring to autumn: April to October.

People have reported increased incidents of tick-borne encephalitis.

Measles cases can routinely occur in Russia, with the country currently experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Measles immunisation service  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Avian influenza  is a risk in Russia.

HIV/AIDS  is a risk.

Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

There has been a reported increase in  rabies  across Russia.

Rabies is deadly. Humans can get rabies from mammals, such as:

• other animals

If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment as soon as possible.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other  infectious diseases  are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products

Get urgent medical attention if you have a fever or diarrhoea or suspect food poisoning.

Medical facilities

Public medical facilities in Russian cities are below Australian standards.

Standards are extremely basic in rural areas.

There are a few international-standard private facilities in major cities – these clinics can be very expensive to access.

Before you're treated, private facilities need either:

• up-front payment
• evidence of adequate insurance
• a written guarantee of payment

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to get proper care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

In July, the Russian President signed a decree banning gender changes, including gender transition surgery, hormone therapy and changing gender on official documents without medical requirements. The law also annuls marriages in which one person "changed gender" and prevents transgender couples from adopting children.

In November 2022, Russia's parliament passed a law banning "LGBT propaganda", criminalising any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". Sharing information or public display of any material promoting "non-traditional relationships" is now a serious criminal offence.

In November 2022, Russia announced that the partial mobilisation of military reservists for the conflict in Ukraine was complete. However, a decree formalising the completion has not been issued. The Russian Government may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government will not be able to intervene if you are subjected to mobilisation.

The US Government issued travel advice in March 2022 advising that Russian security services have arrested US citizens on spurious charges, singled out US citizens in Russia for detention and/or harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and have convicted them in secret trials and/or without presenting credible evidence. The US Government warns that Russian officials may unreasonably delay consular assistance to detained US citizens.

Russian authorities have introduced criminal liability for publishing and distributing 'deliberately misleading' information about the Russian armed forces and any military operations. These laws have been interpreted and applied very broadly to many forms of dissent.

Law enforcement agencies in Russia cooperate closely with agencies in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution. 

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Russian authorities imposed restrictions on real estate and foreign currency transactions for foreign residents. These restrictions can be revised at short notice. Seek advice from local authorities.

Possessing, selling, consuming, or carrying any illegal drugs is illegal.

Penalties are severe and include long prison terms.

Russia has strict rules around medication carried into the country for personal use, including some medications that you can get over the counter in Australia.

If you don't declare restricted medications, authorities could detain you. See  Health .

• Carrying or using drugs

Routine police checks are common in public places.

Carry your passport, visa and migration card with you at all times. Authorities won't accept copies.

If you can't provide travel documentation on request, authorities can detain and fine you.

In Russia, it's illegal to:

• take photos of military places, strategic sites and other sensitive areas, such as passport control and guarded railway sites
• use commercial film, television or camera equipment in public areas without permission, but hand-held home video cameras are allowed
• use drones without permission from the Russian aviation authority.

Penalties for breaching the law include fines, jail and deportation.

Russia regulates religious activity. Authorities restrict activities such as preaching and distributing religious materials.

If you plan to engage in religious activity, ensure you're not breaking local laws.

Contact the Embassy or Consulate of Russia for more information.

Cybersecurity laws

Russia has blocked or restricted some social media platforms and websites, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Russia has banned certain Virtual Private Networks (VPN) and has indicated it will implement a nationwide ban on VPNs in March 2025.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas
• Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor)

Official documents

Some Australian documents, such as birth or marriage certificates, need to be  legalised  before Russian authorities will accept them.

If you have an Australian document that you need to use while in Russia, contact the Embassy or Consulate of Russia for information.

Apostilles  and some legal certificates can be issued by:

• DFAT  in Australia
• Australian embassies and high commissions  overseas

Surrogacy laws

Russia has laws governing child surrogacy and has passed legislation banning surrogacy for all foreigners except those married to Russian citizens. Recent court cases have resulted in long custodial sentences for some providers of surrogacy services. All children born through surrogacy in Russia are granted Russian citizenship, regardless of their parent's citizenship.

Get independent legal advice before making surrogacy arrangements in Russia or with residents of Russia.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Russia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

In November 2022, Russia announced that the partial mobilisation of military reservists for the conflict in Ukraine was complete. However, a decree formalising the completion hasn't been issued. Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government won't be able to intervene if you are subjected to mobilisation.

Conscription occurs regularly, and Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. Conscription in Russia occurs semi-annually, and conscripts typically serve one year. From 1 January 2024, the maximum conscription age will change from 27 to 30 years old. Russian authorities have also passed laws allowing for the draft notice to be serviced to the conscripts online and preventing conscripts from leaving the country once the notice is registered and sent.

Russian authorities won't recognise your Australian nationality if you're a dual national. They will treat you like any other national of Russia.

If you're a dual national:

• you must enter and leave Russia on a Russian passport
• you can enter Russia using a repatriation certificate (svidetelstvo na vozvrashcheniye) if you don't have a Russian passport, but you must still leave Russia on a Russian passport
• you must declare any other nationalities or foreign residency permits to the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs
• you could be conscripted into the Russian military if you're a male between the ages of 18 and 30 

If you're a dual national, this limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Contact the  Embassy or Consulate of Russia  well before any planned travel to Russia.

Dual nationals can't leave Russia without a valid Russian passport.

You'll need to get a new Russian passport before you leave if:

• your Russian passport expires while you're in Russia
• you enter Russia using a repatriation certificate

Getting a new Russian passport for non-residents is complex and can take up to 3 months. The Australian Government is unable to intervene or fast-track this process.

Children born outside Russia and added to their parents' Russian passports need their own passport to leave Russia.

If you're travelling alone with a child, Russian border authorities may require the following:

• documentary evidence of your relationship to the child
• written permission for the child to travel from the non-travelling parent
• Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal in Russia but not widely accepted.

Intolerance towards the LGBTI community is common, particularly outside Moscow and St Petersburg.

People have reported violence against members of the LGBTI community, including by local security forces.

In April 2017, there were reports of arrests and violence against LGBTI people in Chechnya.

In November 2022, Russia passed a law banning "LGBT propaganda", criminalising any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". Sharing or displaying material promoting "non-traditional relationships" is now a serious criminal offence. The bill broadens the existing law banning the promotion of 'non-traditional sexual relationships' to minors.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers.

You need a visa to enter Russia unless you're travelling on certain commercial cruise ships.

You can't get a visa on arrival.

If you arrive in Russia without a valid visa, authorities will fine, detain and deport you at your own expense. They may bar you from re-entering.

Make sure you apply for the correct visa type, such as 'tourist' and 'visitor' visas.

If your visa type doesn't match the purpose of your visit, authorities may:

• not let you enter 

You may need to provide biometric fingerprints for the visa application process.

After you get your Russian visa, check your passport details are correct, including the following:

• passport number
• date of birth
• intention of stay
• validity dates

If there are errors, return your passport to the  Russian Embassy or Consulate  for correction.

It's impossible to amend visa details once you're in Russia.

Discuss your travel plans with your cruise operator before you travel to check if you need a visa.

Check transit visa requirements if you transit through Russia to a third country.

• Russian Embassy
• Going on a cruise

Border measures

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Russia, expect thorough security checks at the border, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Australians sanctioned by Russia

The Russian Foreign Ministry issued statements on its website advising that, in response to Australian sanctions, the Russian Government had added several Australians to a 'stop list', denying them entry into Russia on an indefinite basis.  

These statements can be viewed here (copy and paste the URL into a new browser if you can't open the link):

• 17 April 2024 statement – https://www.mid.ru/ru/foreign_policy/news/1944697/ (in Russian)
• 21 June 2023 statement -   https://mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1890258/
• 16 September 2022 statement  -  https://mid.ru/ru/foreign_policy/news/1830085/  (in Russian)
• 21 July 2022 statement  -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1823204/
• 16 June 2022 statement  -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1818118/
• 7 April 2022 statement  -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1808465/

DFAT can't provide advice on the implications of another country's sanctions. If you're listed, you should obtain legal advice if you have concerns about the potential impacts of the Russian sanctions. Do not travel to Russia if you're on Russia's 'stop list'. 

Other formalities

Migration card.

All foreign visitors receive a migration card on arrival in Russia.

If you receive a paper migration card, keep the stamped exit portion of the card with your passport.

The migration card covers both Russia and Belarus. You must show the stamped card to passport control when leaving either country.

If you lose your migration card:

• your departure could be delayed
• you could be stopped from staying at a hotel in Russia

You can get a replacement from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, which is complex and could delay your departure.

Biometric fingerprinting

Foreign citizens entering Russia for work or intending to stay over 90 calendar days may be subject to biometric fingerprinting and regular medical check-ups. The procedure of biometric fingerprinting will need to be done only once. Medical check-ups will need to be re-taken upon the certificate's expiry (valid for 1 year).

Travel with children

If you're  travelling with a child , you may need to show evidence of parental, custodial or permission rights. This is particularly the case for dual nationals. See  Local laws

• Advice for people travelling with children

Electronics

The government strictly controls the import of electrical and some high-technology equipment.

The rules are complex.

You may import terminal global positioning systems (GPS) devices if you declare them on arrival. However, you'll need a special permit to import a GPS device connected to a computer or an antenna.

Authorities can detain you if you don't have a permit.

You must show proof of advanced approval to import a satellite phone. Request approval from the  Federal Service for the Supervision of Communications .

Russian border officials can demand to inspect any electronic device, including installed software when you leave.

Travel between Russia and Belarus

Do not travel to Russia and Belarus due to the security environment and impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. If you’re in Russia or Belarus, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so.

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Belarus from Russia, note that the government doesn't allow foreigners to cross the land border between Russia and Belarus.

If you travel between Russia and Belarus, it must be by air.

If you're travelling between Russia and Belarus, you must have visas for both countries.

Visa-free entry into Belarus doesn't apply to travellers arriving from or travelling to Russia.

Contact the  Embassy of Russia  and the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus  for details.

Registering your stay in Russia

If you stay more than 7 working days, including your arrival and departure day, you must register with the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

You have to pay a registration fee.

Most hotels do this for their guests, but you're legally responsible. Confirm with check-in staff on arrival that they've registered you.

The registration process can be complex if you're not staying at a hotel.

Register at the nearest post office if you're travelling on a visitor visa.

Register through your employer if you're travelling on a visa that lets you work. Confirm with your employer that they've registered you.

If you don't register, authorities can fine you or delay your departure.

• The Russian Embassy

Visa overstays

Make sure you leave Russia before your visa expires. Some visas, including tourist visas, can't be extended.

If you overstay your visa, you won't be allowed to leave Russia until the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs determines your legal status or deports you.

Authorities can detain you until they've processed your case.

Penalties for overstaying include fines and deportation.

You may be banned from re-entering.

Exporting goods

Russia has imposed temporary restrictions on exporting certain categories of goods, including foreign-made medical products. Seek advice from local authorities.

Russia has strict regulations on the export of antiques, artworks and items of historical significance. This is for items purchased in Russia or imported to Russia from overseas. It includes modern art and posters if they are particularly rare or valuable.

Authorities may not allow the export of items more than 100 years old.

If you want to export any antiques, artworks or items of historical significance:

• keep receipts of your purchases
• obtain an export permit from the Ministry of Culture in advance of travel — export permits aren't issued at the airport
• declare each item to border authorities when you leave Russia
• be ready to show each item to border authorities
• be ready to show receipts for each item to border authorities

Don't try to export items requiring permits without the relevant paperwork. This is a serious offence.

Legislation about the export of artwork and antiques from Russia may change without warning.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for six months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

If your passport is lost or stolen while ashore, you will need to obtain an emergency passport and an exit visa to leave Russia within the 72-hour visa-free period. If it’s not done within 72 hours, you will face a court hearing and possible fine, deportation and entry ban.

To arrange a new visa:

• obtain an official police report
• apply for a replacement passport through the  Australian Embassy in Moscow
• apply to Russian authorities for an exit visa
• include the police report with your application

If you replace your passport while in Russia, make sure authorities transfer your visa to the new passport.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

•       LGBTI travellers  

The currency of Russia is the Rouble (RUB).

Russian authorities have imposed temporary restrictions on the export of foreign currency in cash out of Russia. Travellers exiting Russia can't take more than the equivalent of $US10,000 in cash.

Make sure a customs official stamps your declaration. Only stamped declarations are valid.

You must carry proof that your funds were imported and declared or legally obtained in Russia.

Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Mastercard, Visa, and American Express have suspended operations in Russia. Cards issued outside of Russia will not work at Russian merchants or ATMs. Cards issued inside Russia may continue to work, but they won't work outside Russia. It may not be possible for you to access your funds through Russian banks or to make payments to Russian businesses with non-Russian credit/debit cards. Be prepared with alternate means of payment should your cards be declined.

You may not be able to exchange Australian dollars as well as old, worn or damaged US dollar and euro banknotes into Russian rubles in Russia. Ensure you have enough money to cover your stay in Russia. 

Traveller's cheques aren't widely accepted, even in Moscow and St Petersburg.

Local travel

Postal services between Russia and Australia are temporarily suspended. 

More information 

• Australia Post website

Confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating if you plan to depart Russia. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe are disrupted. Expect thorough security checks at the border, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices.

Flights between Russia and Europe have been affected by measures taken in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Several Russian airports are now closed to the public, disrupting internal flights to and from Moscow and other cities. The train and bus service between St Petersburg and Helsinki is suspended.

Finland  has closed border crossings with Russia indefinitely and maritime borders will close on 15 April. 

Latvia introduced an entry ban on vehicles registered in Russia in September 2023. More information can be found on the  State Revenue Service website . There's a ban on vehicles crossing into/from Estonia at the Ivangorod-Narva crossing. Train service is also suspended. Entry and exit on foot will still be allowed. Additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. 

If you're travelling through an overland border crossing into  Estonia  or  Latvia , confirm the entry requirements for your destination before arrival.

Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers. Confirm entry requirements for your  destination  before arrival, as additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly.

If, despite our advice, you decide to go to Chechnya or the North Caucasus, you must first get permission from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Several other areas of Russia, especially in Siberia and the Russian Far East, are also 'closed' areas.

Foreigners need government permission to enter 'closed' areas.

If you need government permission or are unsure if you need it, contact the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Driving permit

You should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).

You may drive with an Australian driver's license if you carry it with a notarised Russian translation.

Road travel

Driving in Russia can be hazardous due to:

• poor driving standards
• ice and snow in winter
• poor road conditions in rural areas

The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0%.

• Driving or riding
• the Russian Embassy

Some taxis appear official but aren't licensed by local authorities.

People have reported extortion and  robbery  while taking unauthorised taxis. See  Safety

Book an official taxi by phone, at major hotels and from inside airports.

Flights from Russia to other countries are limited. These may change or be suspended at short notice. You should contact airlines or travel agents directly for the most current information.

The  EU announced  that 21 Russian-owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns.

Russian airlines and railways may be affected by shortages of parts and essential technical components for their fleets, affecting maintenance and safety standards. If you're flying domestically or internationally, research your aviation provider before choosing their services.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Russia's air safety profile with the  Aviation Safety Network

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Moscow.  Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Russia.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

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If you're in St Petersburg, you can also contact the Australian Consulate for limited consular help.

Australian Consulate, St Petersburg

Moika 11 St Petersburg 191186 Russia Tel: (+7 964) 333 7572 (NOT for visas) Email:  [email protected]  (NOT for visas)

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Russia Denies Mystery Virus Outbreak as Video Shows Row of Ambulances

Russian authorities denied that a virus outbreak has hit the country after videos circulating online showed rows of ambulances lining up outside infectious disease hospitals in Moscow.

The Moscow Department of Health responded after Russian-language Telegram channel Baza, which is linked to the country's security services, released the footage and said the ambulances were filmed outside two hospitals in the capital on Sunday evening.

"A queue of ambulances at Infectious Diseases Hospitals No. 1 and No. 2 in Moscow," Baza reported. "Most of the sick people have pneumonia. According to Baza, about 30 ambulances gathered at the first hospital, and more than 10 ambulances at the second hospital."

Days earlier, Russian media outlet MK.ru reported that an "incomprehensible virus began to spread across Russia."

Newsweek contacted Russia's foreign ministry for comment via email.

The local health department said lines of ambulances waiting outside hospitals is not unusual, and that infection rates for COVID-19 and acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) have not increased in recent weeks.

"The situation when several ambulances arrive for hospitalization in an infectious diseases hospital is standard," it said in a statement. "The growth in the incidence of ARVI and COVID in Moscow has slowed down; the figures for the last week do not exceed the data of the previous period. And COVID incidence rates have been declining for 2 weeks. Over the next 1-2 weeks, the incidence rate is predicted to reach a plateau."

Russia: A massive queue of ambulances arrived at Moscow's Infectious Disease Hospitals #1 and #2. The majority of patients brought in reportedly have symptoms of pneumonia. pic.twitter.com/HDAk0cGCsS — Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) December 17, 2023

The department said there is "no significant increase in hospitalizations in the city" and that the "morbidity situation is normal and corresponds to the epidemic season.

"Having up to 24 cars on site at the same time is standard practice during peak hours and is not a queue or an emergency situation.

"The hospital regularly monitors the arrival of patients; the situation, when there were about 23 cars on the territory, was resolved within half an hour. In [hospital] No. 2, similarly...the presence of 10 cars on the territory is the absolute norm," the department added.

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The World Health Organization ( WHO ) said on December 15 that respiratory infectious diseases are on the rise across WHO's European region.

"To a large extent, a seasonal increase in respiratory pathogens is expected, but this year's increase could also be attributed to infections among children who were protected during the pandemic, and because some of these pathogens vary in circulation each winter," Marc-Alain Widdowson, high-threat pathogen lead at the WHO Regional Office for Europe, said in a statement.

Do you have a tip on a world news story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about the Russia-Ukraine war? Let us know via [email protected].

Uncommon Knowledge

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

About the writer

Isabel van Brugen is a Newsweek Reporter based in Kuala Lumpur. Her focus is reporting on the Russia-Ukraine war. Isabel joined Newsweek in 2021 and had previously worked with news outlets including the Daily Express, The Times, Harper's BAZAAR, and Grazia. She has an M.A. in Newspaper Journalism at City, University of London, and a B.A. in Russian language at Queen Mary, University of London. Languages: English, Russian

You can get in touch with Isabel by emailing [email protected]  or by following her on X @isabelvanbrugen

To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, Click here.

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Remnants of the bird flu virus have been found in pasteurized milk, the FDA says

The Associated Press

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Tuesday, April 23, 2024, that samples of pasteurized milk had tested positive for remnants of the bird flu virus that has infected dairy cows. Rich Pedroncelli/AP hide caption

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Tuesday, April 23, 2024, that samples of pasteurized milk had tested positive for remnants of the bird flu virus that has infected dairy cows.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Tuesday that samples of pasteurized milk had tested positive for remnants of the bird flu virus that has infected dairy cows .

The agency stressed that the material is inactivated and that the findings "do not represent actual virus that may be a risk to consumers." Officials added that they're continuing to study the issue.

"To date, we have seen nothing that would change our assessment that the commercial milk supply is safe," the FDA said in a statement.

The announcement comes nearly a month after an avian influenza virus that has sickened millions of wild and commercial birds in recent years was detected in dairy cows in at least eight states. The Agriculture Department says 33 herds have been affected to date.

Shots - Health News

More states are finding bird flu in cattle. this is what scientists are watching for.

FDA officials didn't indicate how many samples they tested or where they were obtained. The agency has been evaluating milk during processing and from grocery stores, officials said. Results of additional tests are expected in "the next few days to weeks."

The PCR lab test the FDA used would have detected viral genetic material even after live virus was killed by pasteurization, or heat treatment, said Lee-Ann Jaykus, an emeritus food microbiologist and virologist at North Carolina State University.

"There is no evidence to date that this is infectious virus and the FDA is following up on that," Jaykus said.

What to know about the risks of the bird flu outbreak

Officials with the FDA and the USDA had previously said milk from affected cattle did not enter the commercial supply. Milk from sick animals is supposed to be diverted and destroyed. Federal regulations require milk that enters interstate commerce to be pasteurized.

Because the detection of the bird flu virus known as Type A H5N1 in dairy cattle is new and the situation is evolving, no studies on the effects of pasteurization on the virus have been completed, FDA officials said. But past research shows that pasteurization is "very likely" to inactivate heat-sensitive viruses like H5N1, the agency added.

Matt Herrick, a spokesman for the International Dairy Foods Association, said that time and temperature regulations for pasteurization ensure that the commercial U.S. milk supply is safe. Remnants of the virus "have zero impact on human health," he wrote in an email.

A bird flu outbreak at the largest U.S. chicken egg producer could affect egg prices

Scientists confirmed the H5N1 virus in dairy cows in March after weeks of reports that cows in Texas were suffering from a mysterious malady. The cows were lethargic and saw a dramatic reduction in milk production. Although the H5N1 virus is lethal to commercial poultry, most infected cattle seem to recover within two weeks, experts said.

To date, two people in U.S. have been infected with bird flu. A Texas dairy worker who was in close contact with an infected cow recently developed a mild eye infection and has recovered. In 2022, a prison inmate in a work program caught it while killing infected birds at a Colorado poultry farm. His only symptom was fatigue, and he recovered.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.