New rules prevent passengers on many international flights carrying liquids in their hand luggage. For HIV-positive people who need to take a dose of T-20 (enfuvirtide/Fuzeon) during the flight, a special exemption is needed from the rules to avoid missing a dose of medication, due to the need to take on board vials of sterile water for injection.

Roche Australia has advised NAPWA of the procedures for travelling with T-20 on flights to the US or the UK, where the new arrangements apply.

People who are planning international travel and who need to take T-20 during the flight should:

• Familiarise themselves ahead of time with airport security requirements (these change from time to time);
• Take the minimum amount of T-20, water for injection and syringes/needles on board the flight;
• Carry a “Certificate of Medical Need” – this can be obtained from your doctor;
• Carry a copy of your prescription for T-20;
• Notify the airline prior to travel and ask for a remark to be entered in the reservation system stating that the passenger will be carrying personal medication for injection with a 2ml water for injection vial on board the flight;
• Allow extra time at the airport for security screening when travelling with items which require a special exemption.

Further information about the requirements (which have changed with effect from 31 March 2007) can be found on the Department of Transport & Regional Services website.

In addition to these steps, HIV-positive travellers should familiarise themselves ahead of time with other requirements and recommendations relating to travel with HIV medications. The booklet Up, Up and away: tips for the positive traveller has further information.