Page 45 - International SOS PR Report August 2024

8/14/24, 1:59 PM Essential Pre-Travel Planning for a Safe and Healthy Summer
According to reports, climate change is causing extreme weather around the world,
generating record-breaking heat waves on land and at sea. This increased frequency of

heatwaves globally poses significant health threats, including heat stress, which is the leading
cause of weather-related fatalities and can exacerbate underlying medical conditions.1 To

ensure employee health and wellbeing, organisations should provide clear guidance on
heatwave preparedness, such as staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak

heat hours and recognising the signs of heat-related illness.
Dr Ehab Chalabie, Medical Director, Middle East, International SOS said: “The excitement of

summer travel can sometimes overshadow potential health risks. It is important to understand
that conditions such as heart disease, asthma and diabetes can be worsened by warmer
weather, leading to more severe symptoms and sometimes complications. To mitigate these

risks, organisations should encourage their workforce to consult with healthcare professionals
before travelling. These consultations help travellers identify destination-specific health

threats during summer and take essential preventive measures, including vaccinations,
hygiene practices and sun safety protocols.”

Gulnaz UKASSOVA, Security Director, Information & Analysis Mashreq & Iran, East &
Southern Africa, International SOS, said: “The surge in summer travel underscores the

importance of prioritising employee safety and fostering a strong security awareness culture
within organisations. By conducting comprehensive destination research, travellers can equip

themselves with knowledge of local security risks. This knowledge empowers travellers to
make informed decisions and minimise their vulnerability to threats. Unfamiliar environments

can heighten the risk of security threats, emphasising the need for robust personal security
measures.”

International SOS offers guidelines for organisations and their workforce to stay healthy and
safe whilst travelling from the Middle East region this summer:

1. Pre-Travel Health Check-Up: Encourage employees to schedule a pre-travel consultation
with a healthcare professional. This allows for necessary vaccinations, review of existing

health conditions, and guidance on travel-specific health risks.
2. Destination Research: Advise employees to research their destination thoroughly. This

includes understanding local weather patterns, potential health risks, cultural norms, and
security concerns. International SOS offers a suite of travel advisory resources for various
destinations worldwide.

3. Plan ahead and choose safe accommodation: When selecting a place to stay, use credible

booking sites, pick the location carefully and consider checking reviews from other travellers.
4. Highlight the importance of understanding traveller targeted risks: International visitors can
be common targets for pickpocketing and scams. Provide basic travel safety training to

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