Page 59 - International SOS PR Report August 2024

illnesses, vector-borne diseases and excessive sun exposure. 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 travelling employees.
5. Encourage employees to take precautions to prevent heatstroke: Promote sun protection
practices and remind travellers of the importance of hydration.
6. Inform employees of food safety risks whilst travelling: Food poisoning peaks during the
summer months due to warmer temperatures. Advise travellers to exercise caution with
unfamiliar food and water sources. Bottled water and thoroughly cooked meals are generally
safer options.

https://www.traveldailynews.com/statistics-trends/essential-pre-travel-planning-for-a-safe-and-
healthy-summer/#google_vignette