Most up-to-date Zika advice

Published on: 21/04/2016

Important health advice regarding Zika Virus has been published by Public Health England with input from the RCM,RCOG and RCN. The information  includes  general advice and information for women returning from areas with active Zika transmission who are pregnant or who are planning a pregnancy. Additionally, the publication provides advice for pregnant women who are diagnosed with Zika virus infection, and pregnant women whose baby is thought to be affected.

In October 2015, Brazilian authorities reported an apparent increase in the number of babies

born with a condition called ‘microcephaly’ (babies with a smaller head than expected, which

is associated with reduced brain development). This occurred at the same time as a Zika virus outbreak in Brazil, suggesting a possible link between the increase in microcephaly and the Zika virus. The link between microcephaly with Zika virus is not yet proven, but there is strong and growing evidence to support a link between Zika virus infection in pregnant women and microcephaly and other developmental problems in their babies.

Zika virus is spread by the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito.

The mosquito that transmits the virus is not found in the UK. Therefore, if a person

acquires Zika virus abroad and becomes ill on their return to the UK, the risk to the wider

population is considered negligible.

Some cases of male-to-female sexual transmission have been reported, but the risk of sexual transmission is thought to be low.

Zika virus does not spread by social contact, for example kissing, hugging, or shaking hands.

Areas with active Zika virus transmission are considered to be countries or territories with

confirmed locally-acquired cases (mosquito transmission only) within the last 2 months.The list of countries can be found on the European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) website

and is best looked at online because it is updated frequently.

After an infected mosquito bites someone, the first symptoms of Zika virus infection can

develop in 3 days, but can be up to 12 days in some people.

For the vast majority of people, Zika virus infection is a very mild disease. However, apparent increases in birth defects (particularly microcephaly), and other neurological and immune conditions, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, are being reported in areas where there is active Zika virus transmission.

The links between these conditions and Zika virus are not yet proven, but evidence to support a link is growing as a result of investigations in affected countries. Further information about these findings is available from the World Health Organization.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent Zika infection. The best way to avoid Zika virus infection is by avoiding mosquito bites.

If a pregnant woman requires a laboratory test for Zika virus infection and the result is positive or inconclusive, they will be referred to their local specialist Fetal Medicine Unit and a consultant will advise on next steps. If a problem with their baby’s development is detected, they may be offered a further test called ‘amniocentesis’. This procedure involves removing a small sample of amniotic fluid from the womb so the cells it contains can be tested. Before the woman has amniocentesis, a healthcare professional will explain the procedure, including why they think it’s necessary and the benefits and risks of this test.

If someone has been diagnosed with the virus, this does not necessarily mean the virus has

affected the baby. They will be cared for and monitored throughout their pregnancy by the Fetal Medicine Unit and their midwife.

Severe microcephaly may be detected around 18-20 weeks into the pregnancy, but less severe microcephaly can be difficult to detect. Ultrasound scans in the third trimester (last three months of the pregnancy) are more useful. After an initial scan, periodic scans are recommended and if there are concerns, a pregnant woman may be referred to a Fetal Medicine Unit for more specialised care. Other problems in developing babies have been described in association with Zika virus infection and sometimes these can be detected on an ultrasound scan.

A GP surgery or midwife should be the first point of contact for anyone who has been to a Zika affected country and needs advice.

Further information and the full updated joint guidance can be found here