[Border health examination]

The Swiss federal law on epidemics of 1970 requires that the federal government takes measures to prevent the importation of communicable diseases from abroad. Today, the only examination required is screening for tuberculosis with the aim of early detection and treatment. The examination is compulsory for asylum seekers and refugees as well as for migrant workers from countries other than the members of the EU and EFTA, the U.S.A., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In addition, routine vaccinations are offered to asylum seekers and refugees. The first measures for asylum seekers are taken at the border by the Swiss Red Cross on behalf of the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health. The follow-up is carried out in the cantons by medical institutions designated by the cantonal health authorities.