Zika virus: information for University travellers
Thursday, 11 February 2016
This bulletin gives advice for University travellers who may have concerns about the Zika virus.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared “a public health emergency of international concern” on 1st February 2016 in view of the zika virus and the health concerns that it is causing.
The virus is suspected to be associated with an increase in the number of babies born with malformations such as microcephaly (babies born with abnormally small heads).
What is Zika Virus?
Zika virus is spread by the bite of Aedes mosquitoes which also cause diseases such as chikungunya, dengue, and yellow fever. Aedes mosquitoes predominantly bite during the day, but they can bite at night as well.
Common symptoms of the Zika virus are rash, fever, conjunctivitis and joint pain. These symptoms are usually mild and can last for 2-7 days.
Sexual transmission of the virus from men to women has been reported, however the most important known route of transmission remains mosquito bites.
Travel Advice
At present, the most important protective measures for individuals are to prevent mosquito bites in at-risk individuals, especially pregnant women. Travellers who are pregnant (regardless of trimester of pregnancy) should consider avoiding travel to an area where active Zika transmission is being reported. Currently this is primarily, but not exclusively, in Central and South America.
Any member of staff or student who is pregnant and who wishes to travel to an area where the Zika virus is prevalent, is advised to contact Occupational Health (for staff) or their GP (for students) for travel advice.
Women who are trying to become pregnant who may be required to travel to an area where the Zika virus transmission is being reported should talk to their GP about their plans to become pregnant and the risk of Zika virus infection.
Preventing Zika Virus Transmission
All travellers to regions where these diseases occur need to take insect bite avoidance measures during daytime and night time hours, to reduce the risk of infection with Zika and other mosquito borne diseases. Use a good repellent containing N, N-diethylmetatoluamide (DEET) on exposed skin, together with light cover-up clothing. If you need sunscreen, apply repellent after sunscreen.
Up to date travel advice for countries reporting active Zika transmission is available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC).