Zika Virus

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne illness that is especially of concern to pregnant women or women of childbearing potential due to the association with birth defects such as Guillain-Barré syndrome and microcephaly (abnormally small heads).

Transmission of the virus

Zika virus is carried by the same type of mosquito that transmits dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. It may also be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person, blood transfusion, and from a mother to a newborn. The virus has been found in breast milk, but it is unknown if the virus can be transmitted via breastfeeding.

Zika virus is present in Africa, parts of Asia, in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, South America, parts of the Caribbean and in parts of the southern United States. For the latest updates on countries affected by Zika virus, visit the World Health Organization's website.

Prevention

As of 2018, there is currently no vaccine or medication that protects against getting a Zika virus infection. Travellers visiting affected areas should protect themselves against mosquito bites using insect repellent, protective clothing, mosquito nets over beds, screened doors and windows. All returning travellers from high-risk Zika-affected areas should continue to use insect repellent for at least three weeks, and practice safe sex with condoms or abstain from sexual activity for six months or more upon returning.

Symptoms

Only 20 to 25% of people infected with Zika virus are believed to develop symptoms.

These include:

• Low-grade fever
• Joint pain
• Red eyes
• Rash
• Generalized symptoms such as muscle pain, physical weakness, lack of energy and headaches.

The incubation period of Zika virus ranges from 3 to 12 days. The disease’s symptoms are usually mild and last for 2 to 7 days. Most people recover fully without severe complications, hospitalization rates are low and death is rare. Zika virus infection may go unrecognized or be misdiagnosed as dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya or other viral infections causing fever and rash.