Zika
The Zika virus is mainly transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes that bite during the day. Infection can also take place via transmission from mother to child during pregnancy or via sexual contact and via bloodtransfusion.
Infection usually causes no or only mild symptoms (for example an itchy skin rash). Three to twelve days after infection, sometimes the following symptoms occur:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Fatigue
- Red eyes
Neurological complications can develop in rare cases, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome. A Zika infection during pregnancy can cause a miscarriage or birth defects, e.g., a small skull, vision or hearing abnormalities, growth retardation, mental retardation, or epilepsy.
There is no specific treatment. A person who has been infected with Zika probably has life-long protection against a new infection.
Risk areas
Zika occurs in several countries in Asia, Africa and Latin-America.
Prevention
Mosquito-repellent measures
Protect yourself against mosquitoes, particularly during the day.
Vaccination
There is no vaccine available yet.
Are you pregnant or planning a pregnancy?
- Do not travel to areas with an outbreak of Zika. These are the regions marked in red on the CDC map.
- In other areas, the risk is very low. Protect yourself from mosquitoes. A blood test after returning is not routinely recommended.