Intense rain that has fallen across Honduras has contributed to increasing amounts of stagnant water, and the spread of Chikungunya throughout the whole country. More than 34, 000 cases have been confirmed by government authorities, and the data trend shows that every week 1, 000 more cases appear.

The process of buying medicine to treat the outbreak is set to begin on June 19, 2015, but hospitals representatives are worried because even now hospitals are working beyond capacity.

Analyst comment:

Even though the government started on June 17, 2015 a special operation to exterminate mosquitoes and larvae in more than 2, 000 houses, Pinkerton advises clients to avoid travel, or exercise extreme precaution until the outbreak is under control, as the rainy season will continue and the number of cases is expected to keep rising.

Companies are recommended to advise employees living or operating in Honduras to consult the CDC’s preventative measures at http://www.cdc.gov/ to avoid the Chikungunya virus. The use of a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET with protection that lasts up to several hours is suggested. Constant communication with medical representatives and awareness is recommended. Medical workshops to create preventive protocols should be considered by companies operating in the region.Prepared by: Carlos Lopez Portillo, Mexico

Prepared by: Carlos Lopez Portillo, Mexico

Published June 18, 2015