internationalsos.com - Press releases
Teachers and transportation workers strike in Bolivia; New microchip technology speeds avian flu diagnosis01 September 2006Philadelphia
International SOS, the world's leading provider of medical and security assistance services, international healthcare, and outsourced customer care, offers travel alerts to members traveling overseas to warn them of security risks or medical problems they may encounter at their destinations or en route. The following is a sample of locations that may represent current security and medical risks for global travelers.
Bolivia - August 30, 2006 - Tensions high over public transportation, teacher strike Teacher union groups joined public transportation workers already on strike Tuesday, resulting in heightened tensions around the country that led to spontaneous counter demonstrations by non-sympathetic social organizations. Although government officials claim the strikes have only been partially observed, disruptions have been reported throughout the country as a result of the work stoppages. Public transportation union leaders initially called for a 48-hour nationwide public transportation strike starting on midnight August 28th. It is assessed that high levels of protest activity are likely to persist around the country, particularly in the capital, La Paz. Although associated violence is likely to remain confined to local populations, foreign nationals are vulnerable to collateral violence from these assaults. In addition, the situation could further deteriorate if security forces move to suppress extremely disruptive protest activity, which would likely lead to violent clashes. Travel to Bolivia may proceed. Members are advised to closely monitor the overall domestic security situation. It is strongly advised that members avoid using all forms of public transportation. Members seeking additional information on this situation should contact the 24-hour Regional Security Center in Philadelphia at (215) 942-8226. China - August 28, 2006 - Food borne meningitis in Beijing More than 80 people in Beijing have developed meningitis caused by a parasite after eating raw or undercooked Amazonian snails. At least 20 of those infected dined at a chain restaurant specializing in Sichuan cuisine. The first patient was a 34-year-old man who developed nausea and a headache in June. Since then, others have become ill. Sixteen people are in serious condition in various hospitals. Reports indicate that as many as 84 cases may have already occurred. More cases may yet emerge, as it can take up to a month for the infected person to develop symptoms. This lag means many patients do not connect their illness with the consumption of snails. Health authorities have banned restaurants from serving undercooked snails. This outbreak is attributed to a parasite that can be passed to snails and slugs by rats. People become infected by eating raw or undercooked snails or slugs that are carrying the parasite. The infection cannot pass from person to person, or directly from a rat to a person. Most known human cases have occurred in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Some infected people have no symptoms, or only experience a mild illness that resolves by itself over 6 weeks. Others may develop low fever, nausea, and vomiting. The parasite can cause an inflammation of the brain called eosinophilic meningitis. Symptoms of headache, stiff neck, tingling or painful feelings in the skin, may start 2-45 days after ingestion of the parasite. Occasionally, the disease can be severe and cause long-term neurological effects, or even death. Severe cases require hospitalization and treatment, although there is no definitive cure for the illness. Travelers should avoid eating uncooked snails or slugs, especially in the affected area. Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before eating, as they can carry the parasite and/or infected slugs. United States - August 29, 2006 - New FluChip diagnostic determines flu strain within hours Avian influenza A/H5N1 has caused outbreaks in poultry in an increasing number of countries. At least 22 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa have reported their first cases among birds since the beginning of 2006. For further information, see the International SOS Pandemic Preparedness Website. There, you can access the latest news, detailed information on flu-affected countries and pandemic preparedness planning information. Medical and Security Alerts Members |
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