We have identified you may not be viewing TRAVAX optimally because the browser you are using is unsupported - click here.
We have identified you may not be viewing TRAVAX optimally because the browser you are using is unsupported - click here.
Zika virus was first noted in the Americas in 2015 and since then the epidemiology and understanding of Zika virus infection has evolved considerably, particularly with respect to Congenital Zika syndrome and sexual transmission of Zika virus. The World Health Organisation and Public Health authorities across the UK have reviewed the evidence available to date, and modified the advice for travellers accordingly.
The Travel and International Health Team (T&IH) at Health Protection Scotland (HPS) in response to these changes have updated the advice for travellers on both TRAVAX, fitfortravel
and the HPS website.
Individual Country pages and the Zika virus infection page have been updated accordingly
The main changes of note are:
• After travel, men are advised to reduce the risk of sexual transmission of Zika virus and avoid conception for 3 months (previously 6 months).
• The risk of Zika for an affected country will now be detailed on the individual country page in the ‘Other Diseases Risk to Consider’, including the advice for pregnant travellers and travellers considering pregnancy.
All associated ZIKV travel health advice including details on outbreaks in specific countries will continue to be monitored by the T&IH team and updated regularly on TRAVAX.
In summary, the main advice for travellers is:
All travellers to countries with a risk of ZIKV transmission must consider:
• Mosquito bite avoidance measures.
• Travel insurance.
Travellers to countries at risk of ZIKV transmission should avoid the risk of sexual transmission of ZIKV by the use of contraception and condoms during travel and for:
• 2 months afterwards if female.
• 3 months afterwards if male.
Pregnant travellers are advised to:
• Postpone non-essential travel to a country at High Risk of ZIKV transmission, as detailed on the individual country pages of TRAVAX and fitfortravel.
• Consider postponing non-essential travel to a country at Moderate Risk of ZIKV transmission, as detailed on the individual country pages of TRAVAX and fitfortravel.
There are no restrictions for pregnant women travelling to countries with a Very Low Risk of ZIKV transmission.
