Zika virus

Symptoms

It usually takes between 3 and 12 days for symptoms of Zika virus infection to appear. Symptoms include fever, headache, rash, muscle or joint pain and conjunctivitis. Most people infected with the virus do not show any signs of infection, while others experience mild symptoms that usually resolve within a week. However, the viral infection can cause more serious disorders such as Guillain-Barré syndrome (a neurological disorder) and microcephaly (abnormally small head) in babies born to mothers infected during pregnancy.

Transmission

The virus is generally transmitted to humans by the bite of infected mosquitoes, which are also known to transmit other infections such as dengue fever and chikungunya. These mosquitoes bite during the day, peaking during early morning and late afternoon/evening. They can be found around and even inside homes. The virus can also be transmitted by an infected pregnant woman to her developing baby and sexually transmitted by an infected man to his partner through semen.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for Zika virus. Symptom relief includes rest and hydration. Analgesics, such as acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol®) may be recommended to relieve fever and joint pain. For more information, speak to a health care professional.

Pregnancy

Zika virus infection can cause severe birth defects (e.g., microcephaly). If you or your partner is pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your healthcare provider. When returning from a Zika-affected area, specific measures should be taken by those wishing to conceive. Consult with your healthcare provider for more guidance.

Prevention

There is no vaccine or medication to prevent Zika virus infection. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid mosquito bites. The following precautions are therefore recommended:

• Wear light-coloured, full length clothing, a hat and shoes (avoid sandals).
• For better protection, wear clothing impregnated with insect repellent (permethrin).
• Apply insect repellents that contains DEET or icaridin on exposed skin.
• Stay in accommodations that are screened-in, sealed or air conditioned.
• Sleep under a bed net, preferably one treated with insecticide.

When returning from an area that is affected or potentially affected by Zika virus, specific measures should be taken. To prevent sexual transmission of Zika virus, condoms or another barrier method should be used for several months after returning from a risk area.

Travelers

If you develop symptoms similar to those described above after returning from a trip, seek medical attention promptly. If you have a fever, consult your doctor immediately and tell him where you have been travelling.

For more information:

Essential information for a safe trip

www.travel.gc.ca/travelling