What the F is Zika ?
Zika is a virus that is spread by a particular type of mosquito. (Aedes mosquito) The virus was first detected in Uganda but since then, spontaneous infections have been detected across the world.
Many people have never heard of Zika virus as the symptoms tend to be mild or even undetectable. Symptoms may present as; muscle soreness, rash, conjunctivitis, fever, headache. For pregnant women, or those trying to conceive, the side effects or complications can be more severe.
Contracting Zika in pregnancy can lead to potential congenital abnormalities such as microcephaly (abnormally small head), hearing loss and eye and limb abnormalities. Although the risk is low, fetal loss, stillbirth and preterm labor have also been reported.
How do you contract Zika? Zika is transmitted by; the bite of an infected mosquito, through blood transfusion from an infected person, sexual intercourse without the protection of a condom and from mother to fetus.
Can you test for Zika? Technically, yes via a blood test but the results can be inconclusive and there is currently no treatment or preventative measures for baby once a woman has been diagnosed with Zika.
Generally the risk for contracting Zika appears to be low. Few cases have been reported since 2017, however transmission persists in low levels. Healthcare professionals may be hesitant to provide you with definitive advice or instruction because quite honestly, surveillance is limited and guidance is outdated.
So how do you know if you are travelling to a country that puts you at risk? My best advice, be aware of the risk zones, practice the preventative measures and go with your gut. No one can tell you what is right for you but you have the power to stay informed. The CDC website has a list of countries to avoid based on current and past infection. Their current recommendation for trying to conceive is to avoid travelling to Zika zones two months prior to conceiving for women, and three months for men. Keep in mind that would be three months total for couples having regular intercourse.
If you decide to travel despite the recommendations, here are some things to keep in mind;
Wear covered clothing - long sleeved shirts and pants
Use mosquito nets when recommended
Use physical barriers - closed doors and window screens
use EPA registered insect repellent
For all the information you need, visit https://www.cdc.gov/zika/pregnancy/index.html
