Swine Flu Cases on Rise in Greece

Kathimerini on-line reports that the number of swine flu or H1N1 cases in Greece has topped 21, with virtually all of the cases reported in tourists or Greeks returning to Greece from the United States and elsewhere.

One woman with swine flu, who had just visited doctors in the United States prior to her trip, re-diagnosed herself based on the pamphlet she was given at Athens International Airport and was admitted to a hospital where she is recovering.

The Greek government has specifically asked hotel keepers to be sure that any ill guests are referred to hospitals to be tested for the disease.

If you are traveling in Greece, or anywhere right now, be sure to have with you any phone numbers you need to contact your own health insurance providers. You may also want additional protection via travel insurance. In the unlikely event that a traveler falls ill from swine flu or any other ailment, many higher-end travel insurance policies have help lines which can assist you through the process of getting medical treatment.