Marine Advisory: 04/2016 - Zika Virus
19 February 2016
Marine Advisory 04/2016
Subject: Zika Virus
Dear Shipowner/Operator/Master;
This Advisory provides information and guidance issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Center for Disease Control (CDC) on the Zika Virus and includes precautions to be taken to minimize risks to seafarers, passengers and others on board ships.
Current areas with active mosquito-borne transmission of Zika virus:
- 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.
Zika virus will continue to spread and it will be difficult to determine how and where the virus will spread over time. WHO and CDC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates. All Ship Owners, Operators and masters should become familiar with the contents and monitor the following web sites for updates:
www.cdc.gov/zika/
As it is known to be spread by Aedes mosquitos, WHO recommends people protect themselves from mosquito bites by:
- Using insect repellent;
- Wearing clothes (preferably light –coloured) that covers as much of the body as possible;
- Using physical barriers such as screens, closed doors and windows,
- Sleeping under mosquito nets, especially during the day, when Aedes mosquitos are most active, and
- Emptying or covering containers that can hold water, such as buckets, so the mosquitos cannot breed.
Questions regarding this Advisory should be directed to Safety Department at + 1 703 790 3434 or safety@liscr.com.
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