Zika virus
Overview
Zika virus is mainly spread by mosquitoes found in some parts of the world. For most people it's mild and not harmful, but it can cause problems if you're pregnant.
Symptoms
Most people have few or no symptoms if they get Zika virus. If you do have symptoms, they're usually mild and last around 2 to 7 days. The most common symptoms include: a high temperaturea headachesore, red eyesswollen joints and joint and muscle painlower back paina rash and itching all over the body
Treatment
There are no specific treatments for Zika virus. If you have symptoms, you should: get plenty of restdrink lots of fluidstake pain relief, such asparacetamol If you're pregnant and have Zika virus, your midwife or hospital doctor (obstetrician) will talk about the risk with you. They may arrange a blood test and anultrasound scanto check your baby's growth and development. You may also be referred to a specialist for more monitoring.
Prevention
If you're travelling to an area where Zika virus is found, get advice from your GP surgery, a pharmacy or travel clinic before you go. It's best to do this at least 4 to 6 weeks before you travel, but you can still get advice at the last minute if you need to. There are things you can do to avoid getting Zika virus while you're travelling. use insect repellent on your skin – make sure it's 50% DEET-based use insect repellent on your skin – make sure it's 50% DEET-based sleep under mosquito nets treated with insecticide sleep under mosquito nets treated with insecticide wear loose clothing that covers your arms and legs – the mosquitoes that carry Zika virus are most active during the day wear loose clothing that covers your arms and legs – the mosquitoes that carry Zika virus are most active during the day You should consider avoiding travelling to a country with a risk of Zika virus if you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy in the near future. Zika virus can seriously harm your baby if you have the virus while you're pregnant.