Zika virus, a mosquito-borne disease, has been confirmed in 89 countries worldwide with increases in confirmed Zika cases in Central America. Cases confirmed are in Belize – 281, Guatemala – 112, El Salvador – 110, Mexico – 29. Zika virus is of high concern for pregnant women living and travelling in outbreak areas. Read more
Advice for travellers
Epidemic of the Zika, chikungunya and dengue viruses continue in the Americas and Caribbean. Generally milder than dengue and chikungunya, Zika’s symptoms last 4-7 days and include a rash, pain in the joints, and the eye condition, conjunctivitis. With the apparent exception of pregnant women, long-term ill-effects are rare, although joint pain may linger for weeks – even months. Like dengue and Chikungunya, Zika is spread by Aedes mosquitoes which bite aggressively by day and are found in urban setting, including leafy gardens and outdoor restaurants. Travellers should take particular care to avoid being bitten just after sunrise and just before sunset, the mosquitoes’ main feeding time.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.