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Zika Virus Infection in Guinea-Bissau

12 August 2016

On 29 June 2016 laboratory technicians in Guinea-Bissau confirmed three positive samples of Zika virus infection (ZIKV). The samples are in cases from Bijagos/Bissagos Islands.

For the purpose of advising travellers the Guinea-Bissau has been categorised as a Moderate Risk.

(Via WHO Zika Virus Situation Report - accessed 12/08/16)

Advice for Travellers

All Travellers

  • Mosquito bite avoidance is strongly recommended.
  • Advised to seek travel advice from a healthcare provider at least 6-8 weeks in advance of travel, but particularly important if pregnant or planning pregnancy.
  • Strongly advised to obtain adequate travel insurance – pregnant women should check with their travel insurance company that they are covered under the policy.
  • Take measures to avoid sexual transmission of ZIKV

Specific recommendations for pregnant women

Until the link between ZIKV and adverse pregnancy outcomes has been fully clarified pregnant women should:

  • Postpone non-essential travel to Moderate risk country/territory/area.

Pregnant women should be helped to understand the risks in order to make a fully informed decision. They should be:

  • Reminded that malaria and other travel related hazards may pose a risk during pregnancy.
  • Advised to use condoms to prevent sexual transmission of ZIKV during travel and throughout the pregnancy.
  • On return, early obstetric review is recommended, even if well.

Women of Child Bearing Age

Use contraception and condoms during travel and for 8 weeks afterwards to avoid the risk of ZIKV in an unplanned pregnancy and prevent sexual transmission.

Men

Use condoms during travel to avoid the risk of sexual transmission of ZIKV, particularly during conception or pregnancy and for:

  • 8 weeks after travel if they are asymptomatic and their partner(s) are not pregnant.
  • 6 months after travel if they are symptomatic and their partner(s) are not pregnant.
  • The duration of their partner(s) pregnancy.

Further Resources