My DH and I wondered the same thing about the H1N1 vaccination. I really don't know the answer. The whole experience was so unreasonable that it really was difficult to understand. After we were in quarantine we were given the H1N1 test and it was quickly determined that we didn't have the virus. We were left in quarantine anyway. It was completely illogical, so it is difficult to apply logic and try to predict what will happen.
If there is any chance that we will be quarantined again, we will not go on the trip. I would never have placed my children in that situation if I would have realized how truly terrible the experience would be.
The short time we had on the ABD trip was absolutely fantastic. I would recommend it to anyone. We are thrilled with ABD and would not consider going to China with any other company.
Did you know that there is currently a travel alert concerning being quaratined in China? It expires Dec 30/09 but could very well be extended indefinitely. Certainly China won't ever guarantee you not being quarantined.
This is a quote from the US State Department website.
September 25, 2009
The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the quarantine measures imposed by the Government of China in response to the 2009-H1N1 pandemic that may affect travel to China. This Travel Alert updates the July 9, 2009, Travel Alert in order to advise U.S. citizens of the current quarantine situation. This Travel Alert expires on December 30, 2009.
In May 2009, China implemented a policy that allows it to quarantine arriving passengers who exhibit fever or flu-like symptoms. Although the overall percentage of U.S. citizens being quarantined remains low, the nature of the selection process makes it almost impossible to predict when a traveler may be placed into quarantine. From May to August 2009, the Department of State received thousands of reports of quarantined U.S. citizens. Since September, however, reports of U.S. citizens in quarantine have been infrequent.
In preparation for the October Chinese national holidays and for the fall/winter 2009 influenza season, local and provincial governments were tasked by the Chinese State Council on September 11 to strengthen disease control and mitigation measures, which could affect residents and travelers. Local and provincial policies towards 2009-H1N1 Influenza may remain unpredictable.
Although in July 2009 home quarantine was permitted as an option for some confirmed 2009-H1N1 Influenza cases, travelers are advised that quarantine in a designated hospital or facility remains a possibility. Quarantine practices, including the separation of children from their parents or guardians, can vary by location. In some quarantine situations, there exists the possibility of Chinese medical personnel administering medications to minors without parental permission; the unavailability of suitable drinking water and food; unsanitary conditions; lack of telephone access; absence of English-speaking staff; and limited availability of English-language interpreters. Travelers may also experience delays at airports, railway stations and other locations due to health screenings.
