NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (July 20, 2016) — The following is the full text of a health advisory issued by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), through the Ministry of Health in the Nevis Island Administration dated July 20, 2016.

 

The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is reminding persons who plan to attend the Olympic Games to get vaccinated, especially against measles and rubella at least two weeks before travelling.

 

The Olympic Games are scheduled to take place from August 05-21 in Brazil, followed by the Paralympic Games during the period of September 07-18, 2016.

 

“It is key that everyone travelling to the Games be up-to-date with their vaccination in order to ensure that we can keep the region free of measles and rubella,” said PAHO Director Carissa F. Etienne.

 

This year’s Games are expected to attract up to 500,000 visitors and participants from countries around the world.

 

At least 104 countries reported measles cases in 2015.

 

PAHO/WHO also recommend that all travellers ensure that their immunization for routine vaccines is up-to-date.

 

Further to these recommendations, travellers should consider additional vaccines depending on their itinerary.

 

More details on recommended health measures are outlined in the PAHO/WHO Health Advice for Travelers to the 2016 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games (which can be found online).