FOLLOW THE HEALTH and travel advisories and be precautious, but there is no need for travel and trade restrictions in affected areas.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) issued this advice recently after the World Health Organisation (WHO)said the Zika virus was a “public health emergency of international concern”.
In a statement on the matter, WTTC said: “. . .The WHO has not called for any travel and trade restrictions with destinations where the Zika virus is active. WTTC advises travellers to follow the health and travel advisories issued by the authorities and to take appropriate precautions to avoid getting bitten by the Aedes mosquito when travelling to places with a high-risk of infection.”
“These are normal anti-mosquito protection procedures, using insect repellent, avoiding places with standing water and covering up where possible. The WHO declaration requires an international response, to attack the problem at source to minimise the threat in infected countries and to reduce risk of international spread,” it added.
WTTC said “governments must ensure that they communicate clearly on the development of the Zika virus in their countries and on the preventative measures necessary to stop people from getting infected”.
It also noted that “it is too early to comment on the impact of the Zika virus on the travel and tourism sector”.
“Tourism boards, health organisations and companies across the sector are working together on formulating an appropriate response in every country impacted. Most airlines, cruise lines and tour operators from originating countries are being flexible, by offering alternative plans or refunds to pregnant women and their families who prefer not to travel to affected areas at this time,” it said. (SC)