Singapore Relocation: The Zika Virus

Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MoH) recently confirmed that the Zika Virus has been discovered in Singapore. The mosquito-bite-transmitted disease has been a health concern for some time now, having previously been detected in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Brazil, Central America, and the United States. Our latest Mobility Insights shares recommendations for those relocating and companies moving international assignees into areas where the Zika Virus has been detected.  

Follow the 5-Step Mozzie Wipeout

As the majority of mosquito breeding is found in people’s homes, Singapore’s MoH has come up with five simple things that they’d like residents to do regularly. They call it the 5-Step Mozzie Wipeout:

1. Change water in vases and bowls on alternate days
2. Remove water from flower pot plates on alternate days
3. Turn over all water storage containers
4. Loosen hardened soil
5. Clear blockages and put BTI insecticide in roof gutters monthly 

What is the Impact on Relocation?

In our experience in dealing with similar issues, we recommend that companies have up-to -date information on impacted relocating employees’ whereabouts and travel plans. Education is also key, so provide your international assignees with resources and advice on travel and health. Two good sources of information are the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Singapore Ministry of Health. You can also read our blog post, How is the Zika Virus Impacting Your Relocation Program?, which includes a link to the results of the pulse survey we conducted with our client base on what their organizations were doing in response to the Zika virus.

For more details on the Zika Virus in Singapore, download Cartus’ Mobility Insights or contact a Cartus representative at trustedguidance@cartus.com.