(BLACK PR WIRE/FAMU-TALLAHASSEE) – H1N1 influenza is spreading at a rapid pace throughout the United States. The number of confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza is increasing in other countries, and international airport managers are implementing a screening process for travelers. Americans should not be alarmed when traveling to other countries, but they should be prepared for extensive screening if they display flu-like symptoms.

A traveler who displays flu-like symptoms may be asked to take a rapid flu test, which consists of a nasal or throat swab. If the rapid flu test comes back positive, the traveler will be then isolated from others and immediately hospitalized for medical treatment.

Countries such as China and Japan currently are screening passengers arriving from the United States for high fever and flu symptoms. If a traveler appears to have serious flu-like symptoms or a fever, it is likely that person’s traveling plans will be delayed.

Common symptoms of H1N1 include muscle pains, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, sore throat, runny nose, headache, chills, and difficulty breathing. People are encouraged to not travel if they have any of the symptoms listed above, for reasons that affect their own health and the health of fellow travelers. The United States does not currently have a plan to implement H1N1 influenza screening of travelers into the country.

There are also no intentions by the United States to interfere with the new screening program being implemented by international airports. Travelers are encouraged to visit websites of United States Embassies and Consultants for specified information.

According to the Centers for Disease Control’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, only 12 percent of African Americans are getting vaccinated for H1N1 influenza. This particular type of flu can be similar to the more popular seasonal flu, but it can also become very severe very fast in certain individuals. For more information, visit www.flu.gov.