MANILA, Philippines - International SOS is advising business travelers and expatriates to think twice when considering casual sex during overseas assignments.
The advice marks World AIDS Day, which is held on Dec. 1 each year and is promoted as an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV.
According to reports, up to 51 percent of short-term travelers engage in casual sex abroad and fewer than half of all travelers use condoms consistently.
In some countries, more than one in 20 adults has HIV, with even higher rates in their commercial sex workers.
Some travelers may head to tourist areas used by sex workers, while others may consider cosmetic surgery or tattoos during their time away from home.
HIV is a virus that is most commonly transmitted through unprotected sex or by sharing needles. It is also transmitted from mother to baby and through contaminated blood transfusions. The virus attacks the immune system and weakens the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. AIDS is the final stage of HIV.
Dr. Doug Quarry, regional medical director of International SOS, said, “In recent years we have supported a number of travelers who have been diagnosed with HIV, following their exposure to the virus while abroad.
“As a traveler or expatriate, your risk of getting HIV depends on your behavior. So it is important for all of us to think about what we do while we are abroad. Don’t do what you would not do at home — and don’t make the mistake of thinking it won’t happen to you.â€
According to the World Health Organization, there were 2.3 million new HIV infections in 2012 — which is approximately 6,300 new infections every day.
“All travelers and expatriates should practice safe sex, by using condoms. In some countries, blood products are risky, as they have not been properly screened for HIV and other infections. It’s best to avoid any procedures that involve shared needles, including tattoos, as they may not have been properly sterilized,†said Quarry.
“The only way to find out if you or someone else has HIV is through testing. We advise that you know your HIV status, and the status of your partner. Members should contact an International SOS assistance center if concerned they may have been exposed to HIV.â€
Emergency anti-HIV medication is available but needs to be given within 72 hours of exposure.
Be aware that some countries impose restrictions on people with HIV, and may prevent them from entering or deport them.
Dr. Karabo Mongae is an HIV/AIDS expert and coordinating doctor at International SOS in Beijing. He offers some advice and statistics to mark World AIDS Day 2013.
International SOS is the world’s leading medical and travel security risk services company caring for clients across the globe, from more than 700 locations in 76 countries.
More than 10,000 employees are led by 1,200 physicians and 200 security specialists. Teams work night and day to protect its members.
International SOS has pioneered a range of preventative programs and offer an unparalleled response to emergencies and is passionate about helping clients put “Duty of Care†into practice. Multinational corporate clients, governments and NGOs can mitigate risks for their people working remotely or overseas. Log on to www.internationalsos.com.