Mar 17, 2011
Japan earthquake and tsunami - travel advice

The recent earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on Friday 11 March has caused major damage to a number of nuclear reactors on the east coast of Japan. The Japanese Government has established an evacuation zone around the affected reactors and is responding to the crisis as it evolves.

It remains the case that although unlikely, there is a small chance of exposure to radiation, at very low levels, for people who were in the Fukushima area and an isolated area near Onagawa prior to noon on 15 March 2011. The health effects from exposure at these low levels are considered very low to negligible.

Given these current conditions there is no potential for exposure to countries within the region which would have any health impacts.

As the situation continues to develop, all travelers in Japan are strongly encouraged to continue to follow the protective measures recommended by the Japanese Government. This may include sheltering. In addition, if there is any indication of contamination or if there is any doubt about contamination, this contamination is easily removed by washing your body and clothes.

People returning home from Japan are highly unlikely to be contaminated or exposed to significant radiation and will not require checks for radioactivity. However, if people wish to seek medical advice they should contact their local GP.