Zika virus
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Mainly spread by mosquitoes in certain parts of the world
- Usually causes mild or no symptoms for most people
- Can cause severe birth defects like microcephaly if contracted during pregnancy
- No specific treatment available; management focuses on symptom relief
Overview
Zika virus is an infection primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, commonly found in parts of South and Central America, the Caribbean, the Pacific islands, and Africa. In rare cases, it can also spread through sexual contact with an infected person. The mosquitoes that carry Zika virus are not present in the UK. For most individuals, Zika virus infection is mild or causes no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they are typically minor and resolve within 2 to 7 days. However, Zika poses a significant risk to pregnant women because the virus can seriously harm the developing baby, leading to severe birth defects. There is no specific medication to treat Zika virus. Management involves rest, staying hydrated, and using pain relievers for symptom relief. Pregnant women who contract Zika require close medical monitoring and specialist care to assess the baby's health.
Signs and Symptoms
- High temperature
- Headache
- Sore, red eyes
- Swollen joints and joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Lower back pain
- Rash and itching all over the body
Things That Increase the Risk
- Travel to regions where Zika virus is present
- Being bitten by an infected mosquito
- Having unprotected sex with someone who has Zika virus
- Being pregnant or planning pregnancy while in a risk area
Diagnosis
- Review of recent travel history
- Evaluation of symptoms
- Blood test (especially for pregnant individuals or those with symptoms after travel)
- Ultrasound scan (for pregnant women to monitor baby's growth and development)
Treatment & Management
- Get plenty of rest
- Drink lots of fluids
- Take pain relief, such as paracetamol
- Medical monitoring for pregnant women with Zika virus
- Referral to a specialist for additional monitoring during pregnancy
Prevention
- Use insect repellent with 50% DEET on skin
- Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets
- Wear loose clothing that covers arms and legs
- Consider avoiding travel to risk areas if pregnant or planning pregnancy
- Use condoms to prevent sexual transmission during and after travel to risk areas
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Zika virus:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
Travelers, pregnant women, unborn babies
Prevalence
Parts of South/Central America, Caribbean, Pacific, Africa
Diagnosis
Travel history, symptoms, blood tests
Treatment
Symptom relief, rest, fluids
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
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