Top 5 Facts about Zika Virus

The Zika virus is spreading in many places around the world.

Before you travel, get informed.

1. The Zika virus is:

• found:
  • in tropical climates
  • at elevations below 2,000 metres
• spread:
  • mainly through the bite of an infected mosquito
  • by having sex
  • during pregnancy, from an infected mother to her fetus
  • by infected people who donate:
    • cells
    • blood
    • tissue
    • semen
    • organs

2. The best way to prevent Zika virus infection is to prevent mosquito bites. There is no vaccine to prevent, and no medicine to treat, Zika virus infections.

To prevent mosquito bites:

• use insect repellent on exposed skin: follow label instructions
• use bed nets: they can also cover playpens, cribs and strollers
• cover up: wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and long pants
• stay in:
  • rooms with air conditioning
  • places that have intact window and door screens

3. Zika virus infection during pregnancy may cause birth defects.

• If you're pregnant, being infected with the Zika virus raises your baby's risk of severe health outcomes.
• One such outcome is microcephaly, which is an abnormally small head.

4. Pregnant women and those planning a pregnancy should not travel to Zika-affected countries or areas

• If you must travel, prevent mosquito bites. Ask a health care provider about how to avoid getting Zika virus.

5. The Zika virus can be sexually transmitted.

If you are pregnant and your partner has travelled to a Zika-affected country or area:

• always use condoms correctly during the pregnancy, or
• avoid having sex during the pregnancy

Female travellers

If you plan to become pregnant, wait at least 2 months after returning from a Zika-affected country or area before trying for a pregnancy.

Male travellers

Wait 6 months after returning from a Zika-affected country or area before trying for a pregnancy. During that time, you should:

• always use condoms correctly, or
• avoid having sex

If your partner is pregnant, you should:

• always use condoms correctly during the pregnancy, or
• avoid having sex during the pregnancy

For more information: Canada.ca/zika-virus