Dive Brief:

• Some major transportation employers, airlines and cruise lines, are allowing workers to alter schedules to protect themselves from places known to harbor the Zika virus, according to ABC News.
• The ABC report mentions Air France, American, Lufthansa, Delta, United and Carnival Cruise Lines among the group.  
• Mosquito-borne Zika first came to light in Brazil in 2015, and while it usually only causes mild symptoms (rash, fever and fatigue) that go away after a week or so, the virus has been associated in Brazil with microcephaly, a serious birth defect.

Dive Insight:

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advising pregnant women to reconsider traveling anywhere that the Zika virus transmission is ongoing, and the CDC says women considering pregnancy should discuss it with their healthcare providers before visiting a country affected by Zika virus. The CDC also, of course, advises precautionary measures if they decide to visit a Zika-affected area.

There are a few things employers and HR leaders can do. First, determine if employees who would face the greatest risk if exposed will be traveling to a country with documented cases of Zika. Consider issuing a company-wide communication about Zika risks. Also be aware that employers can not ban women from traveling for work. It is also not recommended to screen people for the virus upon their return from countries in which the virus is circulating.