An emerging mosquito-borne viral infection. In majority cases, the virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito which also transmits other diseases such as chikungunya, dengue and yellow fever. However, in a small number of cases, the Zika virus has occurred through sexual transmission or via the placenta from mother to foetus.
Zika Virus
Signs and symptoms
Following a bite from an infected mosquito, the first symptoms can develop in 3-12 days; however, the incubation period can be shorter or longer in some people. In the majority of cases, infected individuals do not experience any symptoms – in travellers who do, the symptoms are usually mild, self-limiting and last for around 2-7 days.
Treatment & Prevention
Currently, there is no specific, antiviral treatment or vaccine available.
The best form of prevention is protection against mosquito bites. The Aedes mosquito bites predominantly during the day, especially mid-morning and late afternoon to dusk. This is different to malaria-transmitting mosquitoes which bite between dusk and dawn. It is, therefore, advisable to practice bite avoidance measures. All travellers should also exercise precaution to avoid sexual transmission.
Further information
Country-specific information can be found on Travel Health Pro website.
