Introduction

Zika virus disease is mainly spread by mosquitoes. For most people it is a very mild infection and isn't harmful. However, it may be more serious for pregnant women, as there's evidence it causes birth defects in particular, abnormally small heads (microcephaly). Zika does not naturally occur in the UK. Zikaoutbreaks have been reported in the Pacific region, and the virus has now spread to South and Central America, the Caribbean and South East Asia. If you plan to travel to an affected area, seek travel health advice before your trip.Travel advice is tailoredto you and based on the level of risk (high, moderate, low, very low)for the country you're travelling to. It is recommended that pregnant women should: postpone non-essential travelto areas at high risk of Zika virus transmission, and consider postponing non-essential travel to areas at moderate risk of Zika virus transmission until after pregnancy High-risk areas are where cases of Zika virus disease have been acquired locally, through mosquito bites, and reported by health authorities within the last three months. If you travel to an affected area, you can reduce your risk of catching the virus by using insect repellent and wearing loose clothing that covers your arms and legs. Read on to find out: Zika virus How you catch Zika virus infection Reducing your risk of Zika virus infection Advice for pregnant women If you are trying to get pregnant How Zika virus infection is treated Zika virus and blood donation Zika virus andGuillain-Barr syndrome Information about you Further reading