Kennesaw State University will continue its education abroad programs in all countries, according to the Division of Global Affairs, despite the spread of the Zika virus.
Some countries in South America that have been significantly affected by the Zika virus are included in KSU’s education study abroad program.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have both issued travel advisories for pregnant women in countries where the virus is more prevalent, urging travelers to take precautions.
There is a travel advisory in effect that the KSU Division of Global Affairs posted as early as January of this year, according to its website listing current health advisories.
“If students have application, registration, or payment-related concerns (due to Zika’s impact) on education abroad programs that they have already applied for, they can contact me directly,” Iyonka Strawn- Valcy, director of KSU’s Education Abroad and Exchange Programs said in an email. “Additionally, students can still contact Mr. Sweazey for any destination-specific consult.”
Students may contact Strawn-Valcy at 470-578-7787 or via email at istrawnv@kennesaw.edu. Michael Sweazey can be reached at 470-578-2668 or via email at msweazey@kennesaw.edu.
The Zika virus, most common in sub-tropical and tropical areas, is a mosquito-borne disease and can cause symptoms including red eyes, fever, rash and joint pain. The virus gained public attention in 2015 after an outbreak in Brazil was linked to causing a birth defect in children of affected pregnant women.
