The Zika virus outbreak in Brazil has captured the public’s attention and raised concern about employee travel security in South America. Zika, a mosquito born virus, was first discovered in the Zika forest in Uganda in 1964. The disease rarely causes death and symptoms only last about a week. However, the virus is now thought to be associated with more than four thousand cases of microcephaly in Brazil. Microcephaly is a birth defect that causes children to be born with small heads, often impeding normal childhood development. Given this and the fact that Zika is still not well understood by the medical community, this outbreak has generated alarm throughout the employee travel security community.

Employee Travel Security Tips for Dealing with the Zika Virus

The employee travel security consultants at IMG recommend travelers use caution when traveling to areas affected by Zika. Brazil has been the epicenter of the most recent outbreak; however, other countries affected by the Zika virus include: Mexico, parts of Central and South America, several Caribbean islands, Samoa, and Cape Verde, Africa. More specific travel information can be found at: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-information

Zika VirusSince Zika is associated with a birth defect called microcephaly, the CDC advises pregnant women, in any trimester, to avoid travel to regions that have been affected by the virus. Even for those thinking of becoming pregnant, medical experts recommend consulting a physician before traveling to Zika-affected areas.

Due to the fact that Zika is transmitted by mosquitoes during the daytime, it is recommended that business travelers:

  • Use insect repellent (as directed) and wear long sleeve shirts and pants
  • Try to stay in air conditioned buildings, ensuring that windows and doors are locked
  • Use mosquito nets and bed nets in the absence of adequately air conditioned and sealed buildings
  • Consider wearing clothes that have been treated with permethrin

Travelers also should also be familiar with the common symptoms of Zika virus, which include: fever, rash, joint pain, red eye, muscle aches, and headaches. If individuals who have traveled in Zika infected areas notice these symptoms they should seek out medical attention immediately. Additionally, Zika infected patients should expect that there doctor will advise them to remain indoors, away from mosquitoes, for the duration of their infection and recovery.

Learn More About GlobalSecur’s Experience in Employee Travel Security

IMG GlobalSecur experts have extensive experience in employee travel security and travel safety. To learn more about the security solutions offered by IMG GlobalSecur, please visit: http://www.globalsecur.com/gsServices

About IMG GlobalSecur

GlobalSecur is a leading employee travel security firm with considerable experience in traveler monitoring and safety. Corporate or business organizations facing international travel security risks can reach out to IMG GlobalSecur for assistance. The company’s expert security consultants provide services such as employee overseas medical assistance, smart phone travel monitoring, employee travel monitoring, executive travel security and more.

Web. http://www.theimg.com and http://www.globalsecur.com
Tel. (877) 887-9914 or (352) 460-4731

For more information, please Contact Us