HMC urges travellers to be cautious while visiting countries with Zika virus threats

Last year, around this time, the world had been gripped with fear of the Zika Virus, with it being reported in different parts of the world.

Although the threat has decreased substantially, Qatar’s Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has warned people to exercise caution while visiting countries with active transmission of the disease, reported Gulf Times.   

“The Zika virus, along with malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever, and West Nile virus are primarily spread through mosquito bites. These are preventable diseases. If you’re travelling to a country where Zika or any of these mosquito-borne diseases are endemic, it’s important to speak with a travel specialist and have a proper risk assessment,” said HMC’s Medical Director Dr Muna Al Maslamani.

The top doctor said that a person’s risk of contracting a travel-related illness depended on the destination and the individual. Not everyone needs to take a vaccine against the diseases. It will depend on their personal medical history, travel duration and activities planned during the trip, reported The Peninsula.

While there is no commercial vaccines available for diseases like Malaria and Zika, precautions can be taken by travellers.

While malaria prophylaxis pills can be taken upon expert advice, one can also wear long-sleeved tops and trousers to prevent mosquito bites. Applying insect creams and mosquito nets are also ways to avoid bites and infection.

It is advisable for people with pre-existing health conditions to visit a travel clinic at least a month before travel.

It is always advisable for people to check their travel and health insurance prior to taking trips so that they can have an idea of exactly what is covered under it.

While rest and hydration are enough for illnesses with mild symptoms, expert care is necessary if a person has bloody diarrhea, diarrhea and a fever that goes above 102 degrees.

Immediate medical attention is required if one is scratched or bitten by an animal, injured as a result of a car accident, or if an individual is sexually assaulted.