The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) released on 28 August 2016 an advisory that provides employers with general information on workplace measures to limit the spread of the Zika virus.
The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus closely related to the dengue virus. Like the dengue and Chikungunya viruses, the Zika virus is transmitted by the bite of the Aedes mosquito.
The advisory recommended that employers encourage staff to self-monitor for symptoms of Zika. These symptoms include fever, skin rashes, joint and muscle pains, headaches and red eyes.
The Ministry also said that employers should allow employees who are showing symptoms to seek medical attention, especially those who have returned from an affected country in the past two weeks or live or work in the vicinity of Aljunied Crescent and Sims Drive area.
Employers should also advise employees to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using mosquito repellent, wearing long, covered clothing, sleeping under mosquito nets or in rooms with wire-mesh screens or air-conditioned rooms.
Employees who are pregnant are also advised to take extra precaution by protecting themselves from mosquito bites and seek immediate medical attention should they develop signs and symptoms.
MOM added that as the Zika virus is spread by infected mosquitoes, employers should also take immediate steps to prevent mosquito breeding at their workplaces.
AMONG THOSE INFECTED
Responding to the news that migrant workers were among those who have been infected, Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) Chairman Yeo Guat Kwang said: “The MWC will scale up its outreach and education at migrant worker dormitories and congregation areas in the coming weeks. It is our hope to spread this message of vigilance and social responsibility to as many migrant brothers and sisters as
possible so that we can combat the virus together as a community.”
Migrant workers who need assistance or clarification may contact the centre’s 24-hour helpline at 6536 2692.
For the latest updates or more information on the Zika virus, visit the Ministry of Health website here.
