Here's some good news for nervous travelers:

Scientists in Singapore say they have created a hand-held device that can detect the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus within 30 minutes.

The media frenzy over the bird flu has died down, but not totally disappeared. As flu season once again approaches the regions most affected by bird flu, you can be sure that the deadly virus will once again garner some headlines.

The bird flu's predecessor, SARS, was hyped as no less than the beginning of the apocalypse. Neither disease has become widespread, but scientists still claim that it is a possibility. Meanwhile, scientists and governments seem to be making strides towards preparing for a possible outbreak.

For travelers, every reassurance helps. Though, it is hardly time to start putting off the trip and preparing to barricade yourself in the basement. There is no evidence that the bird flu will become more widespread than it already is.