Zika Virus is Heath Emergency

IAM members and the general public should be aware that the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Zika virus a public health emergency. The Zika virus is believed to be especially harmful to pregnant women and their unborn children. There is no vaccine yet available for the virus.

“The virus is spread by mosquitoes, at present it is summer in the southern hemisphere so all precautions should be taken to protect would be mothers,” stated General Vice President Diane Babineaux. “At present the largest concentrations are in Brazil, which is also the host of the Summer Olympics this year. Be careful and cautious if you are planning on attending.” 

In addition be aware that if you were planning to travel to a location that is at risk for the Zika virus, airlines and cruise operators are being helpful in refunding or rearranging travel dates. Please check with your local carriers. The WHO has stated the virus is spreading explosively across the Americas. If you are concerned about this virus and its impact on you and your family please check the links below.
 

http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:af581b94ff5542ffa24cd45bed28e404

http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:959a01a8b95d4302bbeef4b3b1ec9e8d

http://bigstory.ap.org/urn:publicid:ap.org:b31e259788384d23ae89d0f34d035932

http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-information

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