Due to the outbreak of the Zika virus, the maritime industry is on standby for any evidence of any symtoms of the virus that vessel crewmembers or passengers might be experiencing, according to GAC
As the World Health Organization designated the Zika virus as a global public health emergency, all vessel and facility representatives were urged to report any signs of hazardous conditions and illnesses within the last 15 days to the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
Cruise line companies have already started informing their passengers about the virus and, because of a possible link between birth defects and Zika infection during pregnancy, the lines are allowing pregnant women to change itineraries or cancel their trips.
The virus has spread throughout America since it was first detected in May 2015 in Brazil.
Zika is a virus that is spread by mosquitoes, and in rare cases it may be spread via blood transfusions, sexual contact, and from mother to child in the womb.
Most people who get Zika will not have any symptoms, however, those who do get symptoms could experience a fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis, and muscle pain or a headache.
It is uncommon for people infected with the Zika virus to require hospitalization, and deaths are rare.
GAC called on the seafarers to take preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites including avoiding/limiting outdoor activities one hour before and after dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active; covering exposed skin; and using insect repellents.
Prior to 2015, Zika virus outbreaks occurred in areas of Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. In May 2015, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an alert regarding the first confirmed Zika virus infections in Brazil. Currently, outbreaks are occurring in many countries. The virus will continue to spread and it will be difficult to determine how and where the virus will spread over time.
The irony of the matter is that, while India has no reported cases of the dreaded Zika virus infection as of date, it is the first country in the world to have not one but two ready for testing vaccines against the virus.
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