UAE Embassy in Washington, DC advises UAE nationals in the US of swine flu concerns and contingency plans

WASHINGTON, DC (28 April 2009) - With an increase of swine-flu cases in the United States, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Washington, DC has implemented the following actions to provide for the health and safety of UAE nationals in the United States.

• The Embassy has contacted UAE nationals (visitors, students and patients and their companions), in the states in which swine flu cases have been reported, alerting them to take extra safety and preventive measures.  They have been advised to remain in touch with the Embassy in case of emergencies, and to alert local health authorities if they demonstrate any symptoms consistent with swine flu.  Moreover, UAE nationals were advised not to travel to areas where there have been breakouts. 
• The Embassy has formulated a plan to transport UAE students and other nationals back home if the need arises. 
• The Embassy has established two hot lines for UAE students and nationals who may suspect that they have come in contract with the disease, these are:  
  The Embassy emergency line: 1 202 651 1309
  The Military Office emergency line: 1 202 755 6005 
• The Embassy formed a task force to receive calls and report cases, and to determine what other actions may be necessary.  

The Embassy expresses to UAE nationals in the United States its best wishes, reaffirms the importance it places on its citizens’ safety, and emphasize  its preparedness at all times to fulfill its duties to UAE citizens.