If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you may or may not have heard about the Zika virus and its potential risks. FYI Kirsty had, Elliot hadn’t – so it was a bit of a shock when we had to alter our plans to account for it!
Zika has been a major concern for travellers to certain parts of the world, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. As frequent travellers ourselves, we wanted to share what we know about it and how you can take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your baby while travelling. Do read up on it yourself though and check the replant advice in your country (see below) or from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
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What is Zika Virus?
Zika is a viral infection transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes. It’s been most prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of South and Central America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Zika is generally mild in adults, with symptoms like fever, rash, and joint pain that usually go away within a week. However, the main concern with Zika is the serious risk it poses to developing babies.
Why Is Zika a Risk During Pregnancy?
For pregnant women, the Zika virus can cause severe birth defects. The most well-known of these is microcephaly, a condition where a baby’s head is smaller than expected, often leading to developmental issues and brain damage. In addition to microcephaly, Zika infection during pregnancy can also lead to other neurological complications, including developmental delay, hearing loss, and vision problems in the baby.
Is It Safe to Travel While Pregnant?
If you’re pregnant, it’s crucial to consider whether your destination has an active Zika outbreak before planning your trip. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise pregnant women not to travel to areas with active Zika transmission. If you must travel, it’s essential to take extensive precautions to protect yourself from mosquito bites, and you should consult your GP / doctor / healthcare provider before making any travel plans.
Where Are the Zika Risk Areas?
Zika outbreaks have been reported in various countries, but the risk levels can change. Some of the areas with known or recent Zika outbreaks include:
• South and Central America (Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and more)
• Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia)
• The Caribbean (Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Haiti)
• Pacific Islands (Fiji, Samoa, Tonga)
Before you travel, check the CDC’s or WHO’s updated list of countries with Zika outbreaks. You can also use the Travel Health Pro website and search by country to check Zika and other risks.
Even if a country isn’t on the list now, it’s important to be aware that the situation can change, so staying informed is key.
What Are the Precautions to Take if You Must Travel?
If you absolutely must travel to an area with Zika risk, there are several steps you can take to protect both yourself and your baby. These precautions are the same for all travellers but are especially important for pregnant women.
For absolute clarity, the below are general advice taken from a range of sources. Please do your own research and speak to a relevant professional – or don’t travel if you can avoid doing so.
1. Avoid Mosquito Bites
Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, but they can bite at any time of day. To protect yourself:
• Use insect repellent containing DEET (safe in pregnancy in low concentrations), picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and socks to minimise skin exposure.
• Sleep under a mosquito net if you’re staying in areas where mosquitoes are prevalent, especially at night.
• Ensure your accommodation has air conditioning or well-screened windows to keep mosquitoes out.
2. Stay in Air-Conditioned or Well-Screened Rooms
Mosquitoes are less likely to be indoors in air-conditioned spaces. If you can, opt for accommodations with air conditioning or good mosquito-proofing (screens on windows and doors).
Keep the air con on. Better to be cold than risk Zika.
3. Avoid Outdoor Activities at Peak Mosquito Hours
If you’re in an area with active Zika transmission, avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
4. Use Mosquito Nets Over Beds
Even if you’re staying in a hotel or guesthouse, it’s always wise to sleep under a mosquito net, especially in areas where Zika is prevalent. You can get nets that are portable and designed for travel if you want to be double sure you will have one.
5. Avoid Areas with High Mosquito Populations
Areas like tropical jungles, dense forests, and places with stagnant water may have higher mosquito populations. Stay away from these areas, especially if you’re pregnant.
What to Do If You’ve Already Traveled to a Zika Area?
If you’ve already been to a Zika-affected area and are concerned about exposure, the most important thing is to inform your healthcare provider immediately. They may suggest additional monitoring, such as ultrasound exams or blood tests, to check for signs of Zika-related complications. Even if you didn’t experience symptoms, it’s still essential to get advice from your doctor.
If you’re planning to get pregnant or trying to conceive, the CDC recommends waiting at least two months after returning from a Zika-affected area before trying to conceive. This is because the virus can stay in the bloodstream for a while, and you don’t want to take any chances.
Can Zika Virus Be Spread Through Sexual Contact?
Yes, Zika can be transmitted through sexual contact. If you or your partner have been to an area with Zika, check with a healthcare provider.
What Are the Signs of Zika Infection in Pregnancy?
The majority of people with Zika don’t have symptoms, or only have mild symptoms like a rash or joint pain. But in pregnancy, the risk lies in potential complications for the baby, not necessarily in the mother’s symptoms. If you do develop symptoms of Zika while pregnant, such as:
• A rash
• Joint pain or muscle pain
• Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
• Fever
It’s crucial to seek medical advice immediately. The doctor will likely recommend tests to confirm if Zika is present and how it might affect your pregnancy.
Should You Be Tested for Zika Virus During Pregnancy?
If you’ve been to a Zika-affected area during your pregnancy, or you’ve had unprotected sex with a partner who has travelled there, your healthcare provider may recommend testing, even if you don’t have any symptoms. Testing typically involves blood tests or urine tests to detect the virus.
Conclusion: Is It Safe to Travel While Pregnant?
Ultimately, the decision to travel during pregnancy is a personal one, but it’s vital to understand the risks associated with Zika virus. The safest option is to avoid travelling to areas with active Zika transmission. If travel is unavoidable, taking every possible precaution to protect yourself from mosquito bites is crucial.
Always consult your healthcare provider before making any travel decisions, and make sure you’re up-to-date on the latest health advisories regarding Zika in the areas you plan to visit.
We hope this post helps you feel more informed about the risks of Zika virus during pregnancy and the necessary precautions to take. Stay safe, and take care of yourself and your baby while exploring the world. Most importantly, if you have any questions speak to a healthcare professional – this post is really to raise awareness.
