We are travelling to Hong Kong next month and have heard about this new killer virus. Is it safe to go and should we take any precautions?

Dr Jules Eden replies: There is little hard data about this illness. It has been called Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, or SARS. What is known is that it seems to have been contracted in China and taken to Vietnam by the carrier. He then infected local medical staff treating him before his death. Since then, other contacts have been found to develop the same symptoms. This is an acute lung problem like a pneumonia, with death resulting from respiratory collapse. In reality, this is not a pandemic with thousands of cases, but something on a small scale with a couple of hundred infected and 11 deaths so far. It should not prevent you from travelling to south-east Asia but it would be worthwhile checking the web for news of any further outbreaks. For more information and symptoms of the disease, see doh.gov.uk/sars.

· What is the best medication for travel sickness? I normally use Stugeron travel sickness tablets. I was also recommended ginger root tablets but apparently it is advisable to eat something before you take them, and when you are feeling ill, the last thing you want to do is eat.

Dr Jules Eden replies: The trick is to take the ginger root and food before you become ill. Stugeron or cinnarizine is a simple over-the-counter tablet, but it can make you feel sleepy. The best ones are always prescription only. Prochlorperazine is my preference as it is not sedating. There are too many more to mention but look at maxolon, domperidone or from the anti-histamine family Serc.

· If you have any questions you want to ask Dr Jules Eden, email travel.doctor@theguardian.com, or write to The Flying Doctor, The Guardian, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER.