What is the current risk of Zika virus for travelers?

While a major global outbreak is not currently active, potential risks from the Zika virus persist for travelers, particularly in endemic regions.

What are the serious health risks associated with Zika virus infection?

Zika virus can cause severe complications during and after pregnancy, including microcephaly, premature birth, and problems with a baby's brain, hearing, and eyesight.

How can travelers protect themselves from Zika virus?

As there is no vaccine, travelers are advised to avoid mosquito bites, consider avoiding travel to high-risk areas if pregnant, and use condoms to prevent sexual transmission.

Home / Health / Zika's Shadow: 10 Years On, Travelers Beware

Zika's Shadow: 10 Years On, Travelers Beware

5 Feb

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Summary

WHO declared a global health emergency in 2016 due to Zika.
Zika can cause severe birth defects like microcephaly in infants.
No vaccine exists; prevention relies on mosquito bite avoidance and safe sex.

Zika's Shadow: 10 Years On, Travelers Beware

The World Health Organization declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in early 2016 due to a significant Zika virus outbreak originating in Brazil. This mosquito-borne infection, typically causing mild symptoms in adults, gained notoriety for its severe impact on pregnancies.

By the end of 2016, the Zika epidemic had spread to an estimated 1.5 million cases in Brazil and affected 75 countries globally. Although a widespread global outbreak is not currently active, potential risks persist for travelers.

Zika virus, first identified in Uganda in 1947, is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms, if present, are usually mild and short-lived, including fever, headache, red eyes, rash, and joint pain. However, for pregnant individuals, Zika can lead to serious complications such as microcephaly, premature birth, and developmental issues in infants.