Essential health tips for business travellers this flu season
The SA Medical Association shared a warning about rising flu cases across the country. For business travellers, this adds an important layer of risk to what might seem like a routine trip.
Image: Ron AI
IF you are a professional heading abroad for business this winter, there is more to think about than flights and meeting agendas.
The SA Medical Association (Sama) recently shared a warning about rising flu cases across the country. For business travellers, this adds an important layer of risk to what might seem like a routine trip.
It is currently winter, and South Africa is deep into its flu season, which, according to travel risk experts Global Rescue, is a key factor in increased health risks while travelling.
Corporate Traveller, a division of the Flight Centre Travel Group, said in a statement that while respiratory infections were present across the globe, the likelihood of catching something would spike in places with poor air quality and during peak flu periods. 'And peak flu periods would change depending on where you're going.'
In the Southern Hemisphere, including South Africa, flu season typically runs from April to September. In the Northern Hemisphere, it is most active between October and March, while in tropical regions, influenza can circulate all year long.
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Next
Stay
Close ✕
'So, if you're jetting off to attend meetings in London, visit clients in Nairobi or attend a summit in New York, it's worth checking what flu activity is like at your destination,' read the statement.
Corporate Traveller said travel itself would already place a strain on the body. Long hours, less sleep, high stress levels, packed itineraries and prolonged exposure in crowded environments — like airports, aeroplanes and business venues — create the perfect storm for respiratory illnesses to spread. 'It's no wonder why so many people find themselves under the weather halfway through a trip, and in a worst-case scenario, seriously ill while far from home.'
Herman Heunes, the general manager of Corporate Traveller, said he believed that this was a conversation companies needed to prioritise with staff before they leave. 'It's important to check in with travellers about their current health, whether they've had their seasonal flu vaccination and if they have any pre-existing conditions that might put them at higher risk,' he said.
According to the Journal of Travel Medicine, individuals at increased risk of influenza would include those at the extremes of age and those who are immunocompromised.
Heunes also emphasised the importance of having proper travel health insurance. 'We've seen how unpredictable international travel can be, especially when health is involved. Ensuring your employees have the right insurance in place is just step one. Encouraging open dialogue about their well-being is just as critical,' he said.
It is also worth noting that flu vaccinations can provide significant protection, not just for the traveller, but for everyone they come into contact with abroad and back home. Health experts recommend getting vaccinated at least two weeks before departure to give the body time to build immunity.
For those travelling to the Northern Hemisphere later in the year, a second flu jab aligned to that region's seasonal strains might even be necessary.
When employees get sick mid-trip, the ripple effects can be costly, from cancelled or postponed meetings to extended accommodation and return delays. Companies that depend on their teams to represent them globally cannot afford to overlook these very real risks.
As Heunes aptly put it: 'There's a human side to business travel that we must not forget. Your traveller's health isn't a personal matter alone; it's part of your duty of care responsibility to them.'
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
8 hours ago
- IOL News
Empowering Young Filmmakers and Tourism Entrepreneurs
Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied MUCH is being done to empower the next generation of filmmakers and tourism entrepreneurs by KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTFA), as well as by the industries themselves. Later this month, and again in August 2025, TV audiences will be able to see the work of emerging young local filmmakers who got their latest break thanks to KZNTFA's support. We funded two KZN-born filmmakers, Sthobile Hlophe and Nqanawe Shangase, to take part in the 2023-2024 National Film and Video Foundation's (NFVF) Youth Filmmaker Project. This is an annual, year-long discovery, training, and mentorship incubator by Sisanda Henna Films, a boutique film company, for the brightest film writing and directing talent in the country. As the film company explains, this is a transformative programme dedicated to previously disadvantaged youth with a mission to build, strengthen and nurture writer-directors, hone their skills at a practical level, produce quality films and go through an incubated career and skills-propelling programme. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ KwaZulu-Natal filmmaker Sthobile Hlophe production will air on national TV through an initiative driven by KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied Fresh young KZN talent Now, this fresh young local talent will be showcased when two new films by Hlophe and Shangase will premiere on SABC2 today and on August 3. 'The Moment In Between' written by Hlophe and Raihaanah Sayed who also directed it, will air first, while 'Quantum', written and directed by Shangase, will be screened in August. Both films are part of 'Little Africa', a groundbreaking drama series developed by executive producer Sisanda Henna. The stories of resilience and redemption told in the series are expected to eventually be screened to audiences worldwide. Film Fund KZNTFA also has a dedicated Film Fund, 30% of which is allocated to youth development initiatives. The Film Fund has a two-year youth-focused, KZN-only development and production project for up to 10 filmmakers a year. These young filmmakers are paired with industry experts to develop and produce a 60-minute film to be broadcast on a local platform. In addition to that, we also have a film bursary programme, which is strongly youth-focused (94%) and is spread over three years, with women making up 62% of the recipients. And there is an active district development project where brand-new filmmakers from outside the metros are provided with funding for the development of their projects. These have been carried out in iLembe, Mpophomeni and there is a project currently underway in uMzinyathi. KwaZulu-Natal filmmaker Nqanawe Shangase's production will air on national TV through an initiative driven by KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied Inspiring It is encouraging to note that the film industry experts say that young people in KZN are inspiring audiences and reshaping the future of the film and television industry. These individuals are agents of change, pushing beyond conventional methods and forcing traditional media to adapt. They are driving innovation and their fluency in digital trends and audience engagement strategies positions them as the industry's future leaders. Indeed, much of the talent that has been cultivated by Stained Glass itself has already risen to leadership positions across South Africa's film and television landscape. With some now working as directors, producers and writers, this is indeed proof that investment in youth development yields tangible, industry-shaping results. Enthusiastic The youth, of course, are passionate about creative storytelling and highly enthusiastic and eager to break into the industry, as Bonnie Sithebe of Durban Motion Pictures explains. 'They bring fresh energy, a willingness to learn and innovative perspectives,' she explains, while Nilesh Singh, spokesman for the internationally renowned Videovision Entertainment agrees, says young people introduce fresh ideas and innovation. This influence is evident in the content, direction and aesthetics of local productions. The biggest hurdle in the retention of young talent 'is the slow adaptation of traditional media structures to new creative waves''. Many young professional streamers, influencers and digital designers operate outside conventional frameworks and the industry needs to evolve and integrate these roles, says David Mukhwebo, the series creative director at Stained Glass TV. While AI and digital tools offer incredible efficiencies, they cannot replace the essence of human storytelling – and traditional craftsmanship like scriptwriting, cinematography, performance, remains the heart of storytelling. A dream Videovision Entertainment has hosted several apprentices over the years. The company works with NFVF to host learnerships and work experience opportunities through the Get On Set Mentorship Programme. The next step is tertiary studies with opportunities starting at intern level, then progressing to engagement on contract on a per project basis. Apprenticeship programmes The tourism industry itself has long played a vital role in providing opportunities for youth. Southern Sun hotels in Durban have an apprenticeship programme for students leaving school who are technically-minded and interested in a career in facilities management (maintenance). Samantha Croft, Operations Director for Southern Sun's KZN region explains: 'We have partnered with the George Campbell School of Technology and take on 7-10 students every year and rotate them among our hotels. 'During their 12-month internship, they are able to apply for any vacant position within the company.' One of the first students had grown within the organisation and now holds a management position. Two others hold supervisory positions and others are permanently employed. The five-star Oyster Box Hotel in uMhlanga, has three main initiatives for youth development: The Professional Cookery Learnership: The YES – Youth Employment Services – Programme: and CATHSSETA (Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality & Sport). The hotel took on 20 unemployed youth in 2024 for the 12-month Professional Cookery Learnership programme. On completion, 15 students walked away with a National Certificate (NQF Level 4) and five were permanently employed by the hotel: four as Commis Chefs with the other graduate being put on the Red Carnation Hotels management programme. The government-funded YES programme gives graduates a one-year internship within the company and the hotel currently has an HR and IT intern. It is currently recruiting for more chefs. Since 2023, the hotel has hosted 46 students to do their internship/work experience. Sixteen have been permanently employed by the Oyster Box and the rest have moved on to other positions both locally and internationally. These are interesting and innovative times and while there may be challenges, there are also some fascinating opportunities as the youth continue to remain top of our minds. Gumbi is the interim Chief Executive of KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. His views don't necessarily reflect those of the Sunday Tribune or Independent Media SUNDAY TRIBUNE
IOL News
19 hours ago
- IOL News
Unlocking the future of African tourism
As Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa, I've witnessed firsthand how cruising not only offers unforgettable travel experiences but also acts as a powerful catalyst for economic growth, job creation and regional development. Image: Supplied Africa is on the cusp of a tourism renaissance. With its extraordinary natural beauty, cultural diversity, and expansive coastline, the continent is perfectly poised to become one of the world's most exciting cruise destinations. Now is the time to transform long-recognised potential into lasting progress – and cruise tourism is one of the most promising ways to do just that. As Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa, I've witnessed firsthand how cruising not only offers unforgettable travel experiences but also acts as a powerful catalyst for economic growth, job creation and regional development. Together, through strategic collaboration and forward-thinking investment, I believe we can unlock the full value of cruise tourism across Africa. A coastline of opportunity Africa's more than 30,000 kilometres of coastline span vibrant cities, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems, from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic. Ports like Cape Town, Durban, Gqeberha, Richards Bay, Maputo and Walvis Bay already welcome cruise ships with some offering advanced facilities that allow servicing of the vessels too. These destinations are proving just how much potential exists, and they provide an inspiring foundation for future growth. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ We're particularly excited about MSC Cruises' upcoming 2025/26 season, which includes MSC Opera returning to South African waters and extending her reach to stunning destinations such as Port Louis and, for the first time, Mamoudzou in the Comorian Archipelago. These itineraries are a testament to the growing appeal of African coastal cruising, and to what's possible when we embrace a shared vision for tourism growth. Laying the groundwork for growth To ensure this industry flourishes, there's growing recognition of the importance of holistic infrastructure development. Modern ships like MSC's World America can carry nearly 10,000 people (passengers and crew), representing a bigger economic opportunity. However, many African cities will need to gear themselves up to handle this scale of tourism. While well-equipped ports are essential, a truly world-class cruise experience depends on the entire journey, from seamless airport connections and modern roadways to efficient services and memorable inland excursions. In Durban, for example, guests would be thrilled to be able to easily access highlights like Hluhluwe or the Drakensberg. Equally important are the enriching leisure activities that make each destination unforgettable. From snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and exploring World Heritage sites to savouring local cuisine and enjoying traditional music and dance, these experiences create lasting memories for guests while supporting local businesses. Whether it's a guided township tour in Gqeberha, a spice market visit in Port Louis, or a sunset dhow cruise in Maputo, curated excursions help connect travellers with the heart of each destination, transforming a port stop into a meaningful cultural journey. Cross-sector collaboration is essential to unlocking the full potential of cruise tourism. At MSC Cruises, we are proud to work hand-in-hand with port authorities, tourism boards, local governments, hotels, transport operators and leisure activity providers to align our efforts with broader development goals and help build a vibrant, sustainable tourism economy. By co-creating cruise-ready cities where ports act as welcoming gateways to rich inland adventures and cultural experiences, we can generate lasting value for both local communities and international visitors. Tourism that enriches and empowers Sustainable growth lies at the heart of MSC Cruises' approach. From adopting cleaner fuel technologies and advanced waste management systems to designing efficient itineraries, environmental responsibility is embedded in everything we do. Just as importantly, we believe cruise tourism should uplift the people and communities it touches. That's why we prioritise partnerships with local guides, artisans and entrepreneurs, ensuring that every stop on a cruise route contributes to local job creation, cultural exchange, and small business growth. With the right training and enterprise support, local communities can become active participants in the tourism economy, creating authentic, meaningful experiences for visitors while expanding opportunity at home. Working together for shared success One of the most exciting aspects of Africa's cruise tourism journey is the growing spirit of collaboration. Around the world, successful cruise destinations have been built on coordinated strategies between public and private stakeholders. Africa is no exception. From shared marketing to joint infrastructure projects, there's a unique opportunity to harness the power of partnership. Regional cooperation can take this even further. Multi-country cruise itineraries offer unmatched variety, and by working together to streamline visa processes, harmonise standards, and co-promote cruise corridors, African nations can create a world-class, interconnected cruise experience that benefits all. A bright future in sight The global cruise industry has already proven its transformative potential. For example, Florida's cruise sector contributes over $168 billion to its economy. While every region is unique, there's no reason Africa can't chart its own bold course. Already, tourism contributes 8.8% to South Africa's GDP – and it is poised to grow. We have only to look at the success of South African peers like Morocco or Greece to understand the potential. In Morocco and Greece, strategic investment, coordinated marketing, and public-private collaboration have transformed coastal towns into vibrant cruise destinations. In Morocco, ports like Casablanca and Tangier have become gateways to rich cultural experiences, while Greece has leveraged its islands to offer seamless itineraries filled with history, cuisine and natural beauty. These countries show that with the right infrastructure and partnerships, cruise tourism can become a powerful engine for inclusive growth, job creation and global visibility, an inspiring blueprint for South Africa and the wider African continent. This is a moment filled with promise. With aligned policies, smart investment and a shared commitment to inclusive development, Africa can emerge as a leading cruise destination, one that blends innovation, sustainability and authentic cultural connection. We believe this transformation is not only possible, but already underway. By working together with purpose and positivity, we can unlock the future of African tourism and shape it for generations to come. Ross Volk is Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa. He champions sustainable and inclusive tourism as a key driver of economic opportunity across the continent. Ross Volk, Managing Director, MSC Cruises South Africa. Image: Supplied. BUSINESS REPORT Visit:
IOL News
2 days ago
- IOL News
Sea Point's Ritz Hotel could soon be in new hands and ready to add some glitz to the area
Has the Ritz Hotel in Sea Point been sold? Yes, say agents in the area, but no one is willing to confirm it on the record. Image: Vivian Warby Located on the popular Atlantic Seaboard, the Ritz Hotel Cape Town is believed to have been sold for a whopping R350 million to a "Dutch company". It is believed the deal was brokered by a local estate agency and that the buyer (or consortium) is said to be going to continue with the renovations of the building which were half-way completed before drama hit it in 2018. Atlantic Seabord agents are abuzz with the news, an open secret they say, however no one was willing to absolutely confirm or deny it on record ... but they had all heard it was sold... and not by those I interviewed. However, a stop-over at the once fashionable, fabulous and desirable Ritz Hotel Cape Town yesterday, had it locked up and looking anything but glamourous. A sign with no life. Will the Ritz Hotel Cape Town ever come alive again? Image: Vivian Warby Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ A security guard came to ask me what I was doing there. "I heard it's been sold." He replied: "Don't believe everything you've been told... there are always a lot of stories about this building and none come true." It is easy to see why he may feel a bit cynical. Rumours have been swirling since Nicky van der Walt and his company in 2018 soft launched the hotel with what was at the time rumoured to have been a R120 million rejuvenation. But its planned reopening was ultimately unsuccessful when the Cape Town High Court ordered Van de Walt's management company to vacate the building in July 2018, effectively halting the reopening. At the time it was reported that the Cape Town High Court ruled Van de Walt's management company had displayed 'chutzpah of the first order' by occupying the Sea Point hotel since March 2017 without paying a cent to Ritz Plaza‚ which owned the property. Yesterday the derelict 23-storey Ritz Hotel, full of dust and some autumn leaves on the once welcoming entrance mat and a sign with no lights to welcome a visitor, stood somewhat frazzled in the grey winter skies. The security guard assured me that no one has been living in the building, a big feat given how empty buildings are often illegally occupied in a city that has an affordable housing crisis. The Revolving Restaurant may still get its turn again. Image: vivian Warby
