Zika Virus
Zika virus risk areas include the Pacific, the Caribbean, Central and South America, Africa, and Southern and South-East Asia, where there are mosquitoes capable of transmitting the virus. The Zika virus can also be transmitted via sexual contact and in the blood. While most people who are infected have mild or no symptoms, it has been linked to severe medical conditions when the virus is passed from pregnant women to their unborn babies.
Zika often circulates at the same time as dengue and chikungunya. Being an emerging virus, epidemics typically affect entire communities, increasing the risk for travellers.
At the time of writing, disease activity in most areas is likely to be low, but it would be hard to exclude the possibility of disease in high-risk areas. It is important to obtain up-to-date travel advice.
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Symptoms
The Zika viral illness manifests similar symptoms to dengue and chikungunya, although symptoms are usually milder and many cases are asymptomatic. Symptoms usually develop within two weeks of exposure to the virus and can include:
- fever
- rashes
- conjunctivitis
- headaches
- muscle and joint pain.
Prevention
No vaccine is currently available; mosquito avoidance is most important.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy within three months, it is recommended that you avoid areas with current Zika risk. Up-to-date information may be found via the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Australian Government Department of Health.
It is recommended that all travellers to areas at risk of Zika use mosquito prevention methods and use condoms or abstain from sex to avoid contracting Zika during travel.
Treatment
Typically, Zika virus infections are relatively mild. While there is currently no cure for Zika, you may ease symptoms with the following measures:
- Drink enough liquids.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Use paracetamol for pain and fever.
Destinations
The following destinations are known to contain this disease:
Disclaimer: The following information is intended as a guide only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
Health Alerts
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