2. Customer Information – Influenza A H1N1

As you are aware there has been a sustained increase in cases of Influenza A virus H1N1 globally. The World Health Authority is working closely with the public health authorities around the world to minimise the spread of the infection and it is essential that we all play our part in helping to reduce the spread.

As normally happens with flu the infection has been transferred to some others who have been in close contact with an infected person. The clinical symptoms with H1NI are similar to typical influenza and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some report diarrhoea and vomiting

World Health Organisation Statement

Based on assessment of all available information and following several expert consultations, Dr Margaret Chan, WHO's Director-General raised the current level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to 6 this increase in alert status is based on the spread of infection and not the severity of infection. At this stage, effective and essential measures include heightened surveillance, early detection and treatment of cases, and infection control in all health facilities. The WHO advise that there should be no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. People developing symptoms following international travel should seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities.

UK Foreign Office Advice

The UK Foreign & Commonwealth office have upgraded the travel advice to include reference to the H1N1 virus but there is currently no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders as a result of the virus.

Advice for travellers

Preventing the spread of germs is the single most effective way to slow the spread of infections such as flu. To follow are some good practices that will reduce the spread of infections.

• follow public health guidance at your destination
• wash hands with soap and water; use waterless alcohol-based hand gels when soap and water is not available
• avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes, to prevent the spread of germs
• avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes, to prevent the spread of germs
• keep hard surfaces (e.g. door handles, countertops) clean using a normal cleaning solution
• assure that children follow similar advice

In the event that you or a member of your family or party develops flu like symptoms let your representative or hotel receptionist know so that arrangements can be made for you to see a doctor.

Upon return to UK

Information about H1N1 is available at most ports on entry into the UK; there are no other specific processes at ports unless a traveller displays symptoms or reports illness compatible with H1N1 Travellers are advised to monitor their health for seven days after the visit. If you develop a high fever, with cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches, you should:

• contact your GP by phone or call NHS Direct (0845 4647) and inform them of your travel history
• limit contact with other people
• cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose of the tissue promptly
• wash hands with soap and water
• keep hard surfaces (e.g. door handles, countertops) clean using a normal cleaning solution

Thomas Cook

in association with the Federation of Tour Operators and ABTA is working with the U.K. Department of Health to ensure that all is done to safeguard your health. Prepared in conjunction with the Consultant Public Health Adviser to the Federation of Tour Operators and ABTA

3. Out and About

Transport / Transfers

We work closely with respected suppliers to ensure your journey between the airport and your hotel are an enjoyable and comfortable experience. In all resorts we would ask you to:

• Listen to your representatives instructions carefully
• Wear a seatbelt if one is provided
• Always remain seated while the vehicle is in motion
• Never store luggage in the aisle or emergency exits
• Flag up any worries you may have regarding the above to your representative straight away

Please also take all the above into consideration when enjoying an excursion involving coach travel.

Taxis

When using local taxis, make sure you choose a licensed vehicle. Always get a quote before getting into the taxi. If possible, take note of the taxi number.

Roads

Due to differing road and highway laws, please take extra care when crossing the roads. If you are hiring a car, make sure you are familiar with the road laws and plan your routes carefully. Mopeds – Road conditions and drivers attitudes towards mopeds and motorbikes can make riding them a dangerous option overseas. We would advise against moped or motorbike hire in any resort.

Personal Safety

Although crime rates are low, tourists should be extra vigilant when venturing out of their resort. This is most important when going to local markets, bazaars or anywhere crowds of people gather. Consider the following tips:

• Carry only a small amount of money and keep it out of sight
• Avoid carrying a wallet in your back pocket
• Keep any valuables , in particular your jewellery, in a safety deposit box back at your hotel
• Avoid taking your passport out with you
• Carry only one credit / debit card with you – not all of them
• Be aware of your camera, mobile phone, ipod and other things you might carry such as handbags

When walking out at night keep to well-lit, busy areas where possible. Ask your hotel receptionist or concierge for local information, such as areas its best not to visit at night etc…every city / resort has them!

LOCK UP! - lock your doors at night and when you go out during the day, just as you would at home.

Henna Tattoos
We strongly advise against getting Henna Tattoos whilst on holiday. Strict rules and regulations which are generally adhered to in the UK, are not always followed overseas. We cannot audit these vendors to ensure the safety of the procedure or chemicals used.

Children’s Safety

Children are naturally curious and excitable; this is never truer than when they are on holiday! Balconies, lifts, swimming pools and playgrounds are just some of the areas where accidents can occur if children are not properly supervised. Before using any facilities such as cots or highchairs you must satisfy yourself that they are in good condition and up to the safety standards you would expect. If they are not, notify a member of the hotel staff straight away. Ensure that vertical bars on cots are not more than 10cm apart, that mattresses fit snuggly and that there are no sharp edges.

Excursions / Activities

When choosing excursions, make sure you are fit for the activity and that you comply with all safety instructions when taking part. Should you choose to organise your own excursions or activities you should satisfy yourself that your insurance, that of the supplier, legal cover and safety standards are adequate before taking part.

Medhotels.com do not sell excursions or organise activities, but in some destinations we work closely with agencies who offer a booking service. These agencies have been checked for valid insurance and operating licences. To assist our guests in identifying these agency representatives, we have supplied them with Medhotels.com branding.

Please be aware when taking part in any excursion or activity, your contract is with the excursion provider and will be subject to local laws, regulations and excursion providers booking conditions. Additionally, welcome packs received on arrival may contain advertising literature from these local agencies, this does not imply any endorsement or recommendation by Medhotels.com

4. In your Hotel / Apartment

Fire Safety

On arrival at your accommodation, observe any signs in the reception area regarding fire safety, such as, a fire alarm test/drill. Give some thought to how you and your party would leave in the event of a fire or emergency, if you are in any doubt; ask the reception staff or your representative immediately. Please take note of the following:

• There should be a fire instructions notice in your room. This is normally situated on the back of your door. If it is not here, look in the information book.
• Where the nearest exit is to your room
• How would you raise the alarm if you were to see smoke or fire

Lifts

In some countries it is common for lifts not to have internal closing doors – don’t be alarmed, this is perfectly acceptable locally! This means that the inside of the lift is exposed to the lift shaft wall, and this creates a “moving wall” effect. Stand well back from the sides of the lift and adhere to any safety signs that are posted. Children must ALWAYS be accompanied by an adult.

Gas Safety – Self-Catering

Any equipment in your self-catering accommodation should have full user instructions posted nearby or in your welcome book. If this isn’t the case, please notify a member of staff before using the facilities. The staff will be happy to show you how everything works if you are at all unsure. Always follow any instructions provided.

Electrical Appliances

When bringing your own appliances from the UK, I.e. hairdryer, shaver etc ALWAYS use the required adaptor plug suitable for the local voltage. Exercise caution as you would at home; be aware that it is dangerous to use electrical appliances whilst wearing a wet bathing costume or having just showered etc.

Your Room

Balcony - Having a Balcony is a lovely addition to your room, although we would ask that you take the following into consideration:

• Never sit or lean on the balcony rail
• Take extra care on the balcony after drinking alcohol as your judgment may be impaired
• Make sure children are supervised at all times while on the balcony
• Take furniture away from the railings so children are not encouraged to climb to see over the
balcony
• If you have any concerns regarding the safety of your balcony report this to your representative or a member of the hotel staff straight away

Glass Doors - Be careful when walking through patio doors, in bright sun it is hard to tell if they are shut or not. Most hotels will always have glass safety stickers on all large expanses of glass, but take extra care.

Bathroom - Most hotels overseas have tiled floors which can become slippery when wet. Please use the non-slip mats if they are provided, if there isn’t one in your room, request one from reception or lay a towel on the floor while showering.

5. By the Pool / On the Beach

Pool Safety

Most pools overseas do not have a lifeguard on duty. Familiarise yourself with the layout of the pool, depths and any hidden features at the start of your holiday. Also, consider the following:

• Observe the pool safety notice before entering the pool or pool area
• Observe the opening and closing times of the pool and adhere to these at all times
• Supervise children at all times in and around the pool
• Do not dive or encourage diving unless you are sure of the depths. Never dive from bridges, rocks or other features around the pool
• Familiarise yourself with what you would do and who you would contact in the event of any emergency

Pool Hygiene

• Always shower before entering the pool
• Do not use the pool if you are feeling unwell
• Use elasticated, waterproof nappies for babies and small children
• Report any spillages to hotel staff

Beach Safety

Localised information regarding sea conditions and beaches is available from your representative. Please take care when going to beach and be aware that swimming in the sea can be dangerous in rough conditions or areas where unexpected currents are present. Be especially careful if you have small children. Take these tips into consideration when visiting the beach:

• Swim parallel to the shore and always within your depth
• Children should be supervised at all times
• Never swim in the sea at night or after drinking alcohol
• Be aware of any zones for boats and water sports etc where swimming is prohibited

Sunbathing

Remember: The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm

Overdoing it in the sun on your first couple of days can affect the enjoyment of the rest of your holiday. Remember to gradually build your tan and start with a high factor sun cream to avoid burning.

In extreme cases, sun burn can land you in hospital, so take care while you are in the sun and be aware that you can also burn in the shade, when it’s windy or cloudy and while you are swimming.

What to do if you burn:

• Get out of the sun, cover up in loose clothing
• Apply cold water when possible, and then cover the area with light gauze to let the skin breathe.
• Seek medical advice if there is any sign of infection.
• ALWAYS DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

Take particular care with children; always use a high factor cream or sun block. A sun hat and loose cotton clothing should be used for extra protection whilst swimming or out and about. Babies below 6 months should never be exposed to direct sunlight.