Zika virus in Thailand

Zika virus continues to be transmitted across Thailand. From the beginning of 2023 to 15 December, 722 Zika virus cases were reported in Thailand. Cases have been reported across 36 provinces, with the Central and Northern regions most affected.

On 4 January 2023, media reported 25 cases of Zika virus disease in the beach resort of Hua Hin, 200km south west of Bankok.

Zika virus infection is caused by the Zika virus (ZIKV). It is spread by mosquito bites which in pregnancy may result in congenital zika syndrome, with severe consequences for the baby.

Advice to travellers

Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit ZIKV, are particularly persistent and aggressive biters. They bite between dawn and dusk. All travellers to countries that have reported ZIKV infection must consider:

• strict mosquito bite avoidance measures, especially pregnant travellers and those planning pregnancy
• using condoms and contraception if sexually active, to avoid the sexual transmission of ZIKV and the risk of ZIKV in pregnancy, during travel and on return for 2 months (if female) or 3 months (if male)
• travel insurance: pregnant women should check with their travel insurance company that they are covered under the policy before booking their trip, and be aware that the risk of ZIKV in any country may change during the time between planning the trip and travelling
• if there are any additional travel recommendations for pregnant travellers, those planning pregnancy and for preventing onward sexual transmission: these will be listed under the 'Emerging Health Risks' tab of TRAVAX country pages

See the Zika Virus infection page for further information.