Virus Disease Infection

The eighth meeting of the Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) regarding the international spread of poliovirus was convened via teleconference by the Director-General on 12 February 2016.

The European Union today launches the European Medical Corps to help mobilise medical and public health teams and equipment for emergencies inside and outside the EU.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), as a member of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA), has pledged its support to the World Health Organization (WHO) in countering the Zika outbreak. The WHO has declared that Zika constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

As the emerging link between Zika and microcephaly is being explored by the WHO, Dr. Ulrike Sucher, Medical Director at Allianz Worldwide Care looks at what Zika is and the steps that can be taken to prevent contracting the virus. Although large numbers are predicted to contract the virus this year, it is vital that the public are aware that it is only dangerous to pregnant women.

Jelf International is urging UK employers operating in Zika-affected areas of South America to communicate advice to their employees regarding their travel plans, particularly for those that are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. While there has been a lot of publicity and advice for independent travellers, the company is keen that employers play their part in ensuring the advice is passed on to their employees.