The risk and potential complications

Risk increased to moderate for pregnant women, women planning pregnancy and their partners.

Pregnant women should consider postponing non-essential travel to Myanmar until after the pregnancy.

Women should avoid becoming pregnant while travelling in, and for 8 weeks after leaving an area with active ZIKV transmission or 8 weeks after last possible ZIKV exposure.

Couples should follow guidance on prevention of sexual transmission of Zika and avoid conception while travelling and for up to 6 months on return.

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes which predominantly feed between dawn and dusk.

A small number of cases of sexual transmission of ZIKV have also been reported.

Most people infected with ZIKV have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are usually mild and short-lived. Serious complications and deaths are not common.

However, there is now scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of congenital Zika syndrome (microcephaly and other congenital anomalies) and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

General insect bite prevention

Mosquitoes, certain types of flies, ticks and bugs can cause many different diseases. e.g. Zika, malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever.  Some bite at night, but some during daytime so protection is needed at all times.

Bite Avoidance strategy

  • Covering up skin as much as possible, especially if going out at night, wear loose fitting clothes, long sleeves, trousers or long skirts.
  • Use insect repellents on exposed skin. Picardan 20% or DEET 50% products are the most effective.
  • If using sunscreen always apply first, followed by an insect repellent spray on top.
  • If room is not air conditioned, but is screened, close shutters early evening and spray room with knockdown insecticide spray.
  • Electric insecticide vaporisers are very effective as long as there are no power failures!

There is no scientific evidence that electric buzzers, savoury yeast extract, tea tree oil, bath oils, garlic and vitamin B are effective.

For more information visit

www.travelhealthpro.org.uk